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Sketch Tattoos: Origins, Tattoo Designs & Ideas

Sketch Tattoo

A modern technique with a classic art feel.

Sketch Tattoos

“Sketch” is a contemporary tattoo style that’s been rising in popularity along with other modern techniques.

As tattoos become more mainstream, the people who visit tattoo shops become more diverse.

To accommodate the expanding number of tattoo clients, and diversity within the artists themselves, ink is becoming more innovative.

A lot of today’s techniques are less traditionally “tattoo-like,” favoring classic art styles.

While in some circles the old faithful styles reign supreme, and there will always be a place for them, it’s nice to see more options available for people with different tastes.

In a sketchy tattoo, a piece looks like it was ripped from the pages of a sketchbook.

This appeals to people who love the raw quality of a work in progress, rather than a polished end result.

Mixing The Sketchy Tattoo Style with Other Tattoo Styles

Sketch tattoos can look amazing all on their own.

Artist Inez Janiak works almost exclusively in the style and has had amazing success, with clients and followers from around the world.

Her designs are gorgeous and unforgettable, truly a master in the sketch tattoo niche.

That said, sometimes you want something completely fresh and original that feels uniquely you.

One contemporary approach to tattooing is to combine several styles for something fresh, eye-catching, and impossible to copy.

Sketchy Graphic Tattoos

Graphic is something of an umbrella term in the tattoo world.

It’s similar to the pop art movement of the 1960s when a few innovators paved the way for new and imaginative works that broke the rules.

Graphic tattoo designs are a mix of street, abstract, geometrical, and other art styles that feel fresh and exciting in the tattoo world.

Naturally, the sketch approach fits right into this aesthetic.

Sketchy Graphic Tattoo

Sketchy Abstract Tattoos

Abstract tattoo art is difficult to define.

The word “abstract” itself is difficult to define.

Put simply, an abstract tattoo is one that represents something in the “real world,” but feels more symbolic and less like a realistic portrayal.

Leaving sketchy lines in an abstract piece adds to its visual interest.

Abstract Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Black-work Tattoos

The blackwork tattoo is a cool new technique where entire sections of a tattoo will be saturated with deep black.

This can be a more severe, somber design, or something whimsical and cartoonish.

There is a lot of room for innovation within the black-work genre.

Adding a sketchy vibe will only increase the visual appeal.

Black-work Sketch Tattoo

Watercolor Sketch Tattoos

The drippy, splashy, multi-layered patches of ink known as the watercolor tattoo style are becoming popular in other tattoo styles.

While most sketchy tattoo pieces feel somewhat severe, the watercolor tattoo technique can liven up the design.

We love when watercolor ink meets the bold black lines you’ll see in a sketch tattoo.

The styles simultaneously play off of and balance each other out.

Watercolor Sketch Tattoo

Sketch Tattoo Designs

Sketchy animal tattoos.

An animal tattoo should have a liveliness to it, something that captures the true essence of the creature you’re paying homage to.

We love sketch animal tattoos because they do exactly that, and they’re a breath of fresh air for even the most popular designs.

Here are a few of our favorite examples.

Sketchy Lion Tattoos

Most commonly, lions represent regality, power, and courage.

A sketchy lion tattoo will capture the majestic quality of this magnificent beast.

Lion Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Tiger Tattoos

Tiger tattoos tend to symbolize confidence, bravery, and inner strength.

The tiger is a popular symbol in tattoo art, and seeing it done in a sketchy tattoo style gives it a whole new life.

Tiger Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Eagle Tattoos

Eagles can soar higher than any bird, and they can look directly into the sun.

As such, eagle tattoos are often associated with the masculine qualities of solar gods in different religions.

They’re a symbol of freedom and patriotism in the US.

The sketchy tattoo style always has a hint of movement to it, which looks especially striking on a winged creature.

Eagle Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Bear Tattoos

Bear tattoos are a versatile tattoo symbol that can represent fierceness and raw power, maternal love, or even just cuddly cuteness.

Get creative with a bear tattoo in the sketch style.

Bear Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Hummingbird Tattoos

Hummingbirds are magical little creatures like no other.

Hummingbird tattoos have such rich symbolism, but the basic talking points are good luck, adaptability, and creativity.

Because a hummingbird moves so quickly, its wings often have a vibrating quality.

This is something a sketchy hummingbird tattoo can portray in a way another tattoo style can’t.

Hummingbird Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Wolf Tattoos

Wolves move in packs.

For this reason, wolf tattoos can represent strong family bonds.

They’re also fierce predators and are often called upon for strength by human hunters.

A wolf tattoo in the sketchy tattoo style can give this powerful animal a well-deserved majestic quality.

Wolf Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Butterfly Tattoos

Like the hummingbird, the movement of a butterfly’s wings is well captured in the sketchy style.

Butterfly tattoos represent beauty, transformation, and hope.

Butterfly Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Panther Tattoos

Because a panther is all black, it can be hard to give it the right definition in other tattoo styles.

A sketchy tattoo design can show the details of a panther while representing it accordingly.

Panther tattoos can represent cunning, cleverness, a state of cat-like readiness.

They have also become a symbol of the Black Power movement.

Panther Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Cat Tattoos

Cats have a mysterious quality that can be well represented in this sketchy style of tattoo art.

Cat tattoos can represent our cuddly companions, but they also represent magic and mystery.

Cat Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Elephant Tattoos

Elephants are magnificent creatures, and they make for beautiful tattoo art.

An elephant never forgets, and a sketchy elephant tattoo is a memorable design.

In many cultures, elephants are revered for their intelligence, and they’re even considered divine.

Elephant tattoos symbolism: Wisdom, good luck, memories, divine beings on earth.

Elephant Head Sketch Tattoo

Floral Sketch Tattoos

Floral tattoos are popular, to the point where someone may be searching for an original design that doesn’t feel clichéd.

Floral sketch tattoos can be stunning, artistic, and have a high visual impact.

Here is a quick rundown of the symbolism for some of the more popular flowers in the world of ink.

Rose Sketch Tattoos

A rose sketch tattoo is a beautiful thing.

Rose tattoos are the ultimate symbol of passionate love and feminine beauty, and rose is one of the most popular scents to set the mood for a lusty evening.

Rose tattoo symbolism: Beauty, romantic love, passion, enchantment.

Rose Sketch Tattoo

Sunflower Sketch Tattoos

Sunflowers are large, cheery-looking blooms that symbolize health and harvest for a lot of people.

Because sunflowers and their oil can be used for so many things, they’re a prosperous sign for people who live off the land.

A sketch sunflower tattoo is a unique design for a unique flower.

Sunflower tattoos symbolism: Abundance, outgoing sun energy, hope, joy.

Sunflower Sketch Tattoo

Orchid Sketch Tattoos

Orchids are well-loved in the flower enthusiast community for so many reasons.

They’re unique and exciting to look at, and they’re popular in spas because of their calming properties.

There are abundant species of orchids, so for your orchid sketch tattoo, you’ll be able to find one that speaks to you and your individuality.

Orchid tattoos symbolism: Elegance, sensuality, soft strength.

Orchid Sketch Tattoo

Hibiscus Sketch Tattoos

The Hibiscus is a beautiful, sensual flower with a distinct shape and scent.

They’ve been taken from tropical climates and planted worldwide by admirers of their vibrancy.

It’s no wonder hibiscus tattoos are so popular, but a hibiscus sketch tattoo will set you apart from the crowd.

Hibiscus tattoos symbolism: Natural beauty, vibrant life, passionate love.

This could also be an homage to Hawaii or Malaysia, two locations that treasure this bloom.

Hibiscus Sketch Tattoo

Plumeria Sketch Tattoos

Another tropical stunner, plumeria flowers have healing properties and, as a result, often symbolize immortality.

Why not get an immortal dedication to them as a plumeria sketch tattoo?

Plumeria tattoos symbolism: Purity, new beginnings, good health.

Plumeria Sketch Tattoo

Peony Sketch Tattoos

Peonies are a classic in tattooing, especially in traditional Japanese styles.

But we love seeing a popular image in a new light, and a peony sketch tattoo is a fresh way to celebrate this beautiful, many-petaled flower.

Peony tattoos symbolism: Happy marriages and partnerships, personal growth, compassion.

Peony Sketch Tattoo

Daffodil Sketch Tattoos

Daffodils are also known as Narcissus flowers, because they grow near the water, drooping toward their reflections.

But wouldn’t you be a bit vain if you were such an interesting flower?

These sunny yellow blossoms, with their fascinating trumpet shapes, are often seen as symbols of hope.

A daffodil sketch tattoo is a wonderful way to give yourself a little burst of optimism whenever you need it.

Daffodil tattoos symbolism: Friendship, eternal life, rebirth.

Daffodil Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Greek Tattoos

Some of the best tattoos come from Mount Olympus.

Greek gods and goddesses are popular designs, but look fresh and original in the contemporary sketch technique.

Here are some of our favorite figures:

Medusa Sketch Tattoos

Medusa is a complicated mythological figure who represents different things to different people.

While most Medusa tattoos are done in a portrait style, a Medusa sketch tattoo is a beautiful way to capture this dangerous beauty.

Medusa tattoos symbolism: Femme fatale, protection from evil, feminist icon.

Medusa Sketch Tattoo

Phoenix Sketch Tattoos

The phoenix is an inspirational sign for people who have struggled in life.

A phoenix is consumed by flames, only to rise anew from the ashes and start again.

A sketchy phoenix tattoo can capture all the flames and feathers in a proper dynamic fashion.

Phoenix tattoos symbolism: Rising from the ashes, being reborn from difficult circumstances, overcoming obstacles.

Phoenix Sketch Tattoo

Poseidon Sketch Tattoos

Poseidon is the mythological king of the sea, and a Poseidon sketch tattoo is an original way to portray this regal figure.

He’s a favored symbol among people who love ocean imagery.

Poseidon tattoos symbolism: A love for the sea, a “watery” (emotional) personality.

Poseidon Sketch Tattoo

Zeus Sketch Tattoos

A Zeus sketch tattoo would be a powerful piece, something that can perfectly capture the stormy nature of this moody diety.

Bring all the lightning and drama to life with this design.

Zeus tattoos symbolism: The ultimate ruler, a protector, sometimes a Lothario. Shape-shifter.

Zeus Sketch Tattoo

Athena Sketch Tattoos

An Athena sketch tattoo is a powerful way to pay homage to a wise and courageous goddess.

Her Roman counterpart is Diana, who inspired the modern character Wonder Woman.

The Amazonian women of the WW universe have a lot in common with this goddess of war and wisdom.

Athena tattoo symbolism: Inspiration, amazonian women, warfare & wisdom.

Athena Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Egyptian Tattoos

Another popular theme in the tattoo world, we can’t seem to get enough of ancient Egyptian spirituality.

Here are a few Egyptian sketch tattoo designs to consider:

Sketchy Anubis Tattoos

Anubis was said to be a powerful protector of the lost ones, both their resting places and their souls.

He assisted in the “weighing of the heart,” an afterlife ceremony that determines a person’s fate.

A sketchy Anubis tattoo is a cool way to breathe new life into an ancient symbol.

Anubis tattoos symbolism: A guide through the underworld, morality.

This may be a symbol of protection or reaffirming one’s belief in the afterlife.

Anubis Sketch Tattoo

Eye of Horus Sketch Tattoos

Horus is a sky god whose eyes represent the sun and moon.

He can be similar to a phoenix symbol in this regard.

An eye of Horus sketch tattoo is a beautiful way to assert your legacy and say that you cannot be screwed around with.

It is also a protective and healing symbol.

Eye of Horus tattoos symbolize restoring one’s health and protection.

Eye of Horus Sketch Tattoo

Bastet Sketch Tattoos

Bastet is one of the most famous goddesses in the Egyptian mythological pantheon.

With the head of a cat, she is a favorite because of the ancient Egyptian tie to cat worship.

If you are someone who can’t get enough feline company, consider an homage in the form of a Bastet sketch tattoo.

Being a domestic animal, this cat goddess is also a symbol of healthy home life.

Bastet tattoos symbolism: Fertility, protection of one’s home and loved ones.

Bastet Sketch Tattoo

Ankh Sketch Tattoos

An ankh sketch tattoo is a new take on a classic symbol.

The ankh has many meanings, each of them mystical in nature.

The loop with a cross is a union of masculine and feminine, which can represent fertility or balance.

It was also said to grant people eternal life, and some say the shape was a way for the ancient Egyptians to conduct electricity.

Ankh tattoos symbolism: Mysticism, balance, masculine & feminine energy, early scientific advancements, eternal life, and resurrection.

Ankh Sketch Tattoo

Nautical Sketch Tattoos

Because American sailors were some of the first people in America to wear tattoos, nautical imagery and body art go together like mermaids and seashells.

The sketch style can update this classic imagery while still paying homage to America’s tattoo history.

Here’s an introductory guide to some popular images:

Lighthouse Sketch Tattoos

At one point in time, lighthouses provided the necessary light for people traveling on the sea.

This could be a symbol of hope for sailors because they knew they’d found land after months on the water.

A lighthouse sketch tattoo can be a hopeful reminder for people who feel a little lost at times.

It can also be a reminder not to shut people out, and to take care of your mental health.

Many lighthouse keepers went mad from the isolation.

Lighthouse tattoos symbolism: Being guided, a sense of hope, a light at the end of the tunnel.

Lighthouse Sketch Tattoo

Compass Sketch Tattoos

Sketch compass tattoos are a beautiful design for a meaningful object.

No matter how advanced technology becomes, a compass is an essential companion for every traveler.

The compass rose is aesthetically pleasing and makes a great tattoo for an outdoor enthusiast, or someone with an adventurous attitude.

Compass tattoos symbolism: Finding one’s way through difficult times, “not all who wander are lost.”

Compass Sketch Tattoo

Octopus Sketch Tattoos

Octopuses are amazing creatures, some people even say they’re aliens.

They’re incredibly intelligent, have complex personalities, and can change shape, color, and even visual texture.

Octopuses are a common tattoo because they’re such a pleasing design that can suit any body type.

An octopus sketch tattoo design can set you apart.

Octopus tattoos symbolism: Intelligence, mystery, scientific curiosity, alien lifeforms on earth, Hawaiian spirituality.

Octopus Sketch Tattoo

Jellyfish Sketch Tattoos

This creature is beautiful to behold, and a jellyfish sketch tattoo captures the majestic qualities of this mysterious creature.

Jellyfish are relaxing to watch as they float along, but they can also pack a dangerous sting.

They go along with the current, so your jellyfish tattoo may be a reminder to take things as they come.

Jellyfish tattoos symbolism: Tranquility, going with the flow. Can also be a sign of caution.

Jellyfish Sketch Tattoo

Horror Sketch Tattoos

There’s something about sketchy lines that, with certain subject matters, can look a bit scary.

Why not play it up with one of these haunting designs?

Here are some quick talking points on horror sketch tattoos and their symbolism:

Sketchy Skull Tattoos

Skulls are a “memento mori,” a reminder that life is fleeting.

This can be a motivation to enjoy life while you can and to be aware of your impermanence.

Sketch skull tattoos have an eerie quality to them that adds to the macabre effect.

Skull tattoos symbolize accepting one’s ephemerality, laughing in the face of the final exit.

Skull Sketch Tattoo

Valak Sketch Tattoos

Valak can be one of two things.

The name has become most associated with the creepy nun character from The Conjuring series, and many horror fans get Valak tattoos as an homage to the terrifying character design.

A Valak sketch tattoo may also represent “the president of hell,” a notorious demon of legend.

Key symbolism: The president of hell. The epitome of evil, a demon, the demon nun from The Conjuring series.

Sketchy Clown Tattoos

Clowns weren’t always considered scary, but they’ve become an icon in the horror community.

There are evil clown scares once every few years in pop culture, so the legend seems to be eternal.

If you’re looking to pay homage, a sketchy clown tattoo will be a truly terrifying design.

Clown tattoos symbolism: Subverting the norm. The nasty truth behind a smiling face.

Evil Clown Sketch Tattoo

Bird Skull Sketch Tattoos

Birds are often seen as a symbol of communication with the other side, so a bird skull tattoo doubles down on the afterlife symbolism.

A bird skull sketch tattoo is a beautiful idea for a memorial tattoo or a reminder to embrace life while you can.

Bird skull tattoos symbolism: Freedom of the soul, accepting one’s fate. Communicating with the lost ones.

Bird Skull Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Decorative Tattoos

Decorative tattoos usually refer to something ornate with pleasing geometry to it.

These are a few of our favorite decorative tattoo themes, each of which would look amazing in the sketch style.

Sketchy Ouroboros Tattoos

An ouroboros sketch tattoo depicts a snake eating its tail, which is an alchemical image from several different belief systems.

These tattoos can represent the cycle of life, the concept of eternity, or wholeness.

Ouroboros tattoos symbolism: The birth/end cycle, eternal life, renewal.

Ouroboros Sketch Tattoo

Arrow Sketch Tattoos

Beyond its symbolism for the star sign Sagittarius, an arrow can be an encouraging symbol for people who dealt with various drawbacks in life.

When an arrow is being pulled backward, it only launches farther forward.

This is a powerful metaphor for people who feel like they’ve regressed in life.

An arrow sketch tattoo can represent that your journey is not yet finished, the details of your life have yet to be refined.

Arrow tattoos symbolism: Sagittarius, hope, overcoming difficulties.

Arrow Sketch Tattoo

Hamsa Sketch Tattoos

The Hamsa is a Middle Eastern symbol for the hand of God and is often worn as a sign of protection from divine forces.

Hamsa sketch tattoos are a modern way to wear an ancient and sacred symbol.

Hamsa tattoos symbolism: Protection, the hand of God.

Hamsa Sketch Tattoo

Dog Paw Sketch Tattoos

Dog paws can represent a love of dogs in general or a specific special pup in one’s life.

They are sometimes pet memorial tattoos.

A dog paw sketch tattoo has a cool artistic look to it.

Dog Paw tattoos symbolism: Furbabies, man’s best friend, pet memorials, pet tributes.

Dog Paw Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Lettering Tattoos

Lettering tattoos are popular, and there are so many ways to spell out an important message.

Getting your favorite name or quote as a letting sketch tattoo is an interesting way to memorialize something meaningful.

Key symbolism: Memorable quotes, the name of a loved one.

Lettering Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Cow Skull Tattoos

Skulls make popular tattoos, and a cow skull sketch tattoo is a rustic way to bring out your inner cowboy.

Horned creatures can also be protective symbols.

Cow skull tattoos symbolism: Protection, Western themes.

Cow Skull Sketch Tattoo

Sketchy Sugar Skull Tattoos

In Mexican Dia De Los Muertos celebrations, sugar skulls are used to decorate altar tributes to lost loved ones.

Many people have sugar skull tattoos, but a sketchy sugar skull tattoo is an original take on the concept.

Sugar skull tattoos symbolism: Remembering lost loved ones, accepting the end, celebrating life.

Sugar Skull Sketch Tattoo

In love with sketch tattoos?

This is a versatile tattoo style that can fit with virtually any tattoo motif and puts a new spin on classic designs.

It’s the perfect technique for someone who wants a tattoo with a little extra artistic flair.

What will your sketch tattoo be in homage to?

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Home » 55 Exciting Sketch Style Tattoo Designs To Convey a Wide Range of Emotions and Concepts

55 Exciting Sketch Style Tattoo Designs To Convey a Wide Range of Emotions and Concepts

Sketch style tattoo designs, also known as sketch or sketchbook tattoos, are tattoo designs that mimic the look of a pencil or pen sketch. These tattoos often have a rough and unfinished appearance, with visible sketch lines, shading, and cross-hatching.

Sketch style tattoos can be done in black and white or in color and can feature a wide range of subjects, from portraits and animals to abstract designs and typography. These tattoos often have a unique and artistic quality that sets them apart from other types.

One of the benefits of sketch style tattoos is that they can be highly customizable and tailored to the individual’s preferences and personality. Additionally, sketch style tattoos can convey a wide range of emotions and concepts, from light-hearted and playful to dark and moody.

1. Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The sketch style is often used to create a more organic and freeform appearance in the tattoo instead of more detailed and realistic depictions of cats. This style can also lend a more artistic and creative feel to the tattoo design, appealing to those looking for a unique tattoo.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Clodin_93

RELATED: 180 Captivating and Thought-Provoking Mermaid Tattoo Designs

2. French Bull Dog Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

French bulldog sketch style tattoo designs are a popular choice for those who love French Bulldogs and want to express their passion for these dogs creatively and artistically through body art.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Panterart

3. Cat Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

A sketchy floral cat image mixes a cat image with floral details and is done sketchy or hand-drawn. The combination of the two elements can create a unique and beautiful design that is both delicate and bold at the same time.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Ink.Oon_Hktattoo

4. Evil Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

This pattern is a specific tattoo that portrays wicked or sinister themes in a sketchy or hand-drawn manner. This type of tattoo typically depicts a nasty or menacing figure or emblem through straight lines and shading.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Laurids_Tattoo

5. Phoenix Sketch Style Tattoo Design

The mythological bird, the phoenix, is portrayed in tattoo patterns in an artistic manner that resembles a sketch or hand-drawn drawing. The sketch style adds an edgy and unique feel to this exquisite design.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Artist_Mykey

6. Skull Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Skull sketch style tattoo designs are popular for those drawn to dark or macabre themes and want to express this interest through body art.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Timperfections

RELATED: 41 Splendid Orchid Tattoo Designs to Celebrate the Art of Tattooing

7. Ghibli Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Ghibli sketch style tattoo patterns are appealing to Studio Ghibli movie lovers. This style can also lend a more artistic and creative feel to the tattoo design.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Patrizia.Aurelia

8. Rabbit Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Rabbits are often associated with innocence, playfulness, and fertility themes. As such, rabbit sketch style tattoo designs can be popular for those who identify with these themes.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Happygoth.Tattoos

9. Bird Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

In addition, blue birds are known for their dazzling and lively coloration, which makes an exceptionally striking and eye-catching tattoo design. Blue birds are known for being linked with themes such as joy, liberty, and good fortune. Blue bird sketch style tattoo designs are frequently popular options for those who identify with these themes.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Samanthastar_Ink

10. Wings Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Chest wings sketch style tattoo designs are popular for those drawn to the natural and free-spirited themes associated with wings and want to express this interest through body art.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Calinmergetattoo

11.Girl Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Girl sketch style tattoo designs are a type of tattoo that feature the image of a girl depicted in a sketch-like or hand-drawn style. This type of tattoo typically features a design with simple lines and shading used to create the image of the girl.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: sechzehntattoo

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12. Halloween Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

This design features a SpongeBob with Halloween-related elements such as pumpkins. SpongeBob Squarepants is a beloved cartoon character recognizable and relatable to many people, making these tattoos a fun and playful way to celebrate Halloween.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Kozkaa.Tattoo

13. Free Hand Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

This type of tattoo typically features a minimalist design, with simple lines and shading used to create the image of the mask. This style can also lend a more artistic and creative feel to the tattoo design, appealing to those looking for a one-of-a-kind tattoo.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Patka_Tattoo

14. Anime Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Anime sketch style tattoo designs are popular for anime fans who want to express their love for their favorite series through body art. The sketch style adds an edgy and unique feel to the design, making it stand out and giving it a personalized touch. It reflects the individual’s personality and style.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Anthonyinkco

15. Lion Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The lion is a popular subject for tattoo designs due to its symbolic and cultural significance and powerful and majestic appearance. The sketchy appearance gives the design a distinctive, edgier vibe.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

16. Villan Arts Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

This tattoo art style is characterized by the designs’ rough appearance, strong lines, and dramatic coloring, which give the artwork a gritty and primal feel.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Samhyndmanart

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17. Butterfly Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

This tattoo style typically uses simple lines and shading to create a raw and organic appearance. It can add to the natural and delicate feeling of the design.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

18. Flower Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The sketch style in flower tattoos can add an edgy and unique feel to the design. It emphasizes the delicate and intricate nature of the flower’s petals and details. Flowers are a popular subject for tattoo designs due to their beauty and symbolic significance.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

19. Fairy Tale Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The sketch style of these tattoos can add an extra layer of whimsy and charm to the design, creating a lovely and captivating piece of body art.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Braina_Tattoo

20. Rose Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

  The sketch style can emphasize fragility. The detailed nature of the rose’s blooms and features gives the design an edgy and peculiar feel. This tattooing is frequently preferred by people who want to display their appreciation for the natural world. The beauty of blossoms and those who wish to use their tattoos to convey their sentiments and feelings.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

21. Elephant Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The design typically features a cute and playful-looking elephant, with details such as big eyes, rosy cheeks, and sometimes even a small smile. This style of tattooing is often associated with a more playful and whimsical aesthetic. It is popular for those looking for a fun and lighthearted tattoo.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Srain_Bolt

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22. Black And Grey Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The black and grey color palette of these tattoos is often used to create a more subdued, realistic look, as opposed to the bold, bright colors used in other tattoo styles. The sketch style of the design adds a layer of visual interest, giving the impression of a drawing or sketch on the skin.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

23. Oleoismo Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

By fusing the artistry of drawing with the symbolic images of the skull and rose. This sketch tattoo design offers an attractive and distinctive way to convey oneself through body art.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Jeremias.Tattoo

24. Ship Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

This design is inspired by the art of sketching, with an emphasis on raw, unrefined lines and shading. They typically feature a ship, alone or with other elements, such as waves.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

25. Cheetah Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Cheetah cubs are a popular animal motif in tattoo art, often associated with innocence, playfulness, and wildness. They are known for their distinctive spots and fast running speed, making them a beloved symbol in the animal kingdom.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: taylorcatclaw

26.Dream Catcher Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

When choosing a dream catcher sketch style tattoo design, there are many elements to consider, such as the style, the placement, and additional details. Some popular themes for these tattoos include feathers, birds, flowers, and other nature-inspired motifs.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: viereggeart

RELATED: 71 Christian Tattoo Designs Ideas 

27.Castle Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The design of castle sketch style tattoos can vary widely, from a simple outline of the castle to a more detailed representation. It captures the unique architectural features of the structure.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Yulinker

28. Cub Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

  The cub sketch style of these tattoos is intended to evoke a sense of innocence, youthfulness, and a connection to the natural world.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

29. Animal Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Animal sketch style tattoo designs offer a unique and beautiful way to incorporate the beauty and symbolism of the natural world into your body art. These tattoos can be a timeless and meaningful addition to your collection.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

30. Giraffe Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Giraffes are known for their long necks and distinctive spots, making them a popular subject for tattoo designs. The sketch style of the design adds a layer of visual interest, giving the impression of a drawing or illustration on the skin.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Melissadowart

31. Elephant Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The use of shading and line work creates a sense of three-dimensionality and realism, giving the tattoo a lifelike quality.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: custom.cult.tattoo

RELATED: 47 Splendid World Map Tattoo Designs for both Men and Women

32.Realistic Girl Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

This tattoo showcases intricate details, shading, and textures to create a three-dimensional appearance, making it look like the girl is there on the skin.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

33. Manga Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Manga characters in this tattoo design depicted with large red eyes, exaggerated expressions, and unique clothing styles, making them a beloved symbol in pop culture.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Studio.Furia

34. Doggies Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

These designs offer a unique and powerful way to express one’s love and admiration for dogs through body art, combining the artistry of sketching.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: dave_lighthouse

35.Bunny Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Bunnies are a popular animal motif in tattoo art, often associated with innocence, playfulness, and cuteness. They are known for their distinctive long ears, big eyes, and front teeth, making them a beloved symbol for tattoo art.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Ms.Margo.Art

36. Pet Paw Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

  This tattoo features the image of a pet’s paw, typically drawn in a sketch-like style. The designs are often intricate and detailed, featuring lines and shading that gives the impression of a 3D image of the paw.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: dablin_tattoo

RELATED: 51 Marvelous Back Neck Tattoos Women That You Must Try

37. Water Color Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

This style of tattooing is often associated with a more artistic and expressive aesthetic. It is a popular choice for those looking for a visually stunning tattoo.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: alextattoo.gdansk

38. Disney Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

These designs offer a powerful way to express one’s love for childhood fantasy through body art. It combines the artistry of sketching with the iconic imagery of Disney characters.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Viktorie_Amazink_Tattoo

39. Batman with Wing Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The incorporation of wings into the design adds an element of flight and freedom. It emphasizes the idea of Batman as a powerful and unstoppable force.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: studio.tattoo.28

40. Leo/Taurus Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Leo and Taurus are both zodiac signs known for their strength and determination. Combining the two animals in a tattoo design strongly represents these traits.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: alienstattooindia

41.Crow Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The designs are often intricate and detailed, featuring lines and shading that give the impression of a 3D image.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Tua_Tattoo

RELATED: 15 Marvelous Sunflower Tattoo Designs To Consider Before Getting Inked

42. Buffy Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Buffy sketch style tattoo designs are tattoos that are inspired by the popular television show Buffy the Vampire Slayer and feature a sketch-like style.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

43. Pokemon Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

This design perfectly captures your love for the bright yellow Pokemon and is a beautiful and unique work of art.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Curlyh0rns

44. Duck Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

These designs’ cute and playful nature makes them a popular choice for those who want a fun and lighthearted tattoo.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Aurids_Tattoo

45. Bird Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The use of bright, bold colors adds an extra layer of visual interest to the design, creating a stunning and eye-catching piece of body art.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Taylorcatclaw

46. Lisboa Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The spectacular pattern and color scheme in this tattoo design highlights the beauty and vibrancy of this tattoo design.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

RELATED: 81 Impressive Tiny Or Minimalist Tattoo Ideas For Women

47. House Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

These designs are often highly detailed and may incorporate a range of different elements, such as trees, gardens, fences, or other architectural features.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

48. Blue Owl Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The use of color is also an option, as pops of color can bring out the beauty and vibrancy of the blue owl.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

49. Balloon Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

This balloon tattoo design y features a vibrant and playful depiction of balloons in a cluster. Balloons are often associated with celebrations, making them popular tattoos to convey joy.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

50.Mermaid Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The use of shading and line work can create depth and dimensionality, bringing the design to life on the skin.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: nfs_design

51.Football Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

This tattoo design is an excellent choice for anyone looking to show their love of the sport uniquely and artistically.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: _eltanin_

RELATED: 57 Impressive Sleeve Tattoos Designs For Women

52. Fineline Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The fineline sketch style of these tattoos can add an extra layer of complexity to the design, creating an intricate and beautiful piece of body art.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: ame_noire_tattoo_shop

53. Cut Puppy Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

A cut puppy sketch style tattoo design typically features a stylized drawing of an adorable puppy, often depicted in a freehand or sketch-like style.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: jjduke_

54. Cute Cat Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

Cute cat sketch style tattoo designs typically feature a stylized, freehand, or sketch-like drawing of a cat.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: aimee_rose_tatts

55. Color Full Bird Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

The use of vibrant colors and detailed linework can create a sense of movement and energy, giving the tattoo a dynamic and lively quality.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Credit: Ophelia.Bespoke.Tattooing

RELATED: 43 Adorable Mini Tattoo Of Moon And Stars For An Alluring Appearance

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular sketch style tattoo designs.

  Some popular sketch style tattoo designs include animals, flowers, skulls, portraits, and fantasy creatures like dragons or unicorns. These designs can be customized to suit the individual’s preferences and adapted to various tattoo placements and sizes.

  How do I choose a sketch style tattoo design?

Choosing a sketch style tattoo design involves considering your personal style and preferences, as well as the placement and size of the tattoo. You can browse through tattoo artist portfolios or online tattoo galleries to get inspiration and ideas for your design.

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Sketch Style Tattoo Explained

Do you like the look of sketches, with their rough lines and loose design? Then a sketch style tattoo should be at the top of your list of tattoo ideas!

This new-age design style focuses heavily on the beauty within the base of artwork pieces: the sketch. The style offers a unique tattoo that features artwork in progress, creating an unfinished yet put-together look. You’ll be a true canvas, as your tattoo will look like a design torn from your tattoo artist’s sketchbook!

Continue reading to learn more about what this tattoo style encompasses along with some eye-catching examples from professionals.

An artist sketching a human figure and plant details. Sketch style tattoo is based on the concepts of artist sketches.

Let’s Get to the Point: What is a Sketch Style Tattoo?

A sketch style tattoo is exactly what you think it is!

Have you ever taken a peek at someone’s sketchbook or watched a how-to drawing video? Artists will almost always start with a base drawing that loosely depicts their subject. Think of it as the skeleton of an art piece. And this base is what the sketch style tattoo consists of.

The markings are clear and jagged, unlike what you’d see on something like a portrait tattoo where everything blends. It’s essentially a tattoo that looks like a sketch or a free-hand drawing. The result will look as though your tattoo artist drew your tattoo onto your body with a pencil or pen.

This style doesn’t have a specific type of content associated with it. And it can often get incorporated into almost any tattoo you want.

Any type of artwork uses at least a few or all of the seven elements of design . These elements include line, shape, space, form, color, value, and texture. The sketch style tattoo usually focuses on only a few of these elements, including line, shape, space, and sometimes value. Form, color, and texture are often in the final art product, which this style doesn’t entail.

How Did the Sketch Style Tattoo Originate?

This tattoo style started rising in popularity recently as people wanted to move away from the traditional tattoo look. It only began appearing in the tattooing world within the last two decades or so. It’s still new, making it a modern and contemporary style addition.

Not everyone enjoys the traditional look of tattoos. They want something new and exciting, which is why the sketch style tattoo came onto the tattooing scene.

The Elements of a Sketch Style Tattoo

Every style of tattoo has its specific elements. These elements are what help define the overall style categories. Sketch style tattoos, in particular, omit many artistic elements, stripping tattoos down to their bare bones. But that doesn’t mean these tattoos are boring or simple-looking. Artists can use just a few elements, such as the following, to create breathtaking work.

Black or Gray Ink

Closeup of tattoo artist pouring black ink into tattoo cups.

What do you notice when you think of or look at an ordinary art sketch? You’ll probably see that it’s devoid of any color. Most art sketches solely use a pencil or a black ink pen. Again, this is because a sketch is simply a base, so there’s no need to go into tons of detail just yet.

Due to this, you’ll often see the sketch style tattoo in black or gray ink. Most of the time, the artist will use multiple shades of gray to give some contrast without using full-on shading.

A select few artists do their sketch tattoos in color, but that isn’t usually the norm. If they decide to use color, it’s typically a singular color rather than a combination. Think of it like a colored pencil-style sketch tattoo. It still has a pencil-like look but in color.

Rough Lines

Another vital element of the sketch style tattoo is its almost unfinalized look. This is because the tattoo will have rough and irregular lines, which often cross over each other instead of connecting. The lines are often sharp with the absence of any curves. These types of lines give the tattoo an overall rugged and raw look.

At first glance, the impression you’ll get from it is that the design is still a work in progress. However, the tattoo doesn’t necessarily look forgotten about or unfinished. It just looks like there is room for additions if needed or wanted.

Cross-Hatching or Line Shading

Closeup of the details in an artist sketch.

When it comes to the sketch style tattoo, you won’t usually get flawless, blended shading. This is because art sketches typically don’t include any shading at all. Blended shading is an element that goes into the final product. And a sketch is like a pre-drawing before the actual artwork.

So, instead of shading, tattoo artists will often incorporate cross-hatching to create contrast. Cross-hatching involves crisscrossing lines to create x’s, which utilizes the art and design element of value. It creates the look of light and dark without shading. This technique stands out beautifully, especially against the surrounding white space.

Another popular way to show value in a sketch style tattoo is through directional lines. The artist will simply draw lines closely together in a specific direction to mimic shading. As the lines become closer, the value looks darker to the eye. Diagonal lines are a popular option.

The lack of traditional shading and blending will put the look of the tattoo on the flatter side. It’ll lean more towards a two-dimensional design instead of a three-dimensional one. But this isn’t a bad thing!

Sketch Style Tattoo Artists to Check Out

Many tattoo artists are starting to pick up this modern tattoo style. Artists may only specialize in the sketch style tattoo, or they might use it in combination with other styles.

Here are some trending tattoo artists on Instagram who specialize in sketch style tattoos. Their accounts are worth checking out as their designs are perfect visual examples of the style. You might even want to book an appointment with them!

Moona Autumn

Moona Autumn creates her tattoo artwork in Austria at a tattoo shop called Thorns and Spines. Her tattooing style focuses heavily on the sketch tattoo style intertwined with the dark tattoo style . The majority of her work is in black and gray, with a lot of weight on solely pure black ink.

You’ll also notice that her focus is on nature. So, many of her designs revolve around animals, trees, and flowers. But she also has plenty of other-worldly designs, like mythological creatures, which tie into the dark tattoo style. She’s keen on cross-hatching and using line work to create value. This minotaur sketch style tattoo design is an excellent example of how she uses these two techniques!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Moona Autumn – Tattoos (@moona.autumn)

BK is a tattoo artist located in Seoul, Korea. Many of his designs also incorporate a combination of both sketch and dark styles. Much of his work encompasses surrealistic designs combined with reality, like this mechanical heart. However, instead of using cross-hatching like Moona Autumn, he uses lines closely drawn together.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BK (@bk_tattooer)

Similar to the heart design, BK’s tattoos use a loose, scribble-like technique, which accentuates the look of a sketch. His use of this technique creates the impression that he made his designs with an old quill pen. It’s truly mesmerizing to look at.

Heitor Martins

Heitor Martins is a tattoo artist in Brazil who works out of the 3.04 Ink tattoo shop. He is one of the tattoo artists who incorporate color into some of their sketch style tattoos. However, much of his work is in black and gray ink. Martins’ designs feature a mixture of content subjects ranging from animals and architecture to surreal pieces. He can design almost anything!

His value technique of choice is varying diagonal lines like within this beautiful lighthouse tattoo. The designs also feature a quill pen-like look. His designs look exactly like a black ink pen sketch. He even includes the little bleed marks at the end of the lines to hit the look home.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Heitor Martins (@thortattoo)

Sketch Style Tattoo FAQs

Do sketch style tattoos age well.

Generally, sketch tattoos will age well. This is because they use black and gray ink most of the time. Black ink fades much slower than colored ink, as black is incredibly pigmented and the darkest ink available.

However, keep in mind that the sun can fade your tattoos faster. So, you should try to keep them covered if you’ll be in the sun for long periods. Using a color-enhancing tattoo cream can also keep your tattoo looking pigmented.

Can a sketch style tattoo be in color?

Yes, this type of tattoo can be in color. However, using color isn’t a common tattooing practice with this style because art sketches are usually in black and white. If the artist uses color, they’ll typically use it in pops of color. Or, they may do the entire tattoo in one color.

Does a sketch style tattoo take longer to complete than other styles?

The time frame of this type of tattoo depends on what the design is and how complex it is. But it will likely take less time than other styles due to the lack of detail. The artist also typically uses one color, so the artist isn’t constantly switching needles or ink colors.

Wrapping Up the Sketch Style Tattoo

A tattoo artist making a sketch.

The sketch style tattoo has plenty to offer with its artistic touches and incredibly unique look. Tattoos are already an art form. But this style further emphasizes that through the rough, pencil-like markings and cross-hatching values.

If you’re looking for a new tattoo, this style is definitely something to consider!

Are you interested in learning about the other types of tattoos that are out there? Check out our Tattoo Styles page for more fascinating explainers!

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How to Draw Traditional Style Tattoos: Step-by-Step Tutorial

The American traditional tattoo style, sometimes called “old school tattoos,” is one of the most popular styles, featuring bold lines and limited colors. And while all traditional style designs are 2-D and look simple, if you’re an aspiring artist who has tried drawing it yourself, then you know it’s not as easy as it looks.

On top of that, because American traditional tattoos have been around for so long, they also come with lots of rules and norms that most artists follow when designing.

In this article, we’ll break down the rules you need to know, go over popular themes and imagery, and explain how you can draw, paint, and tattoo in the american traditional style like a pro..

sketchbook tattoo ideas

In this article, we’re breaking down:

  • The background of American traditional tattoos
  • Step-by-step tutorials explaining how to draw popular traditional designs
  • How to paint traditional flash with the “spit shading” technique
  • Tips and tricks for tattooing traditional tattoos (and how to “fill” traditional sleeves)

Background: What is American Traditional Tattoo Style?

Sailor Jerry working in a tattoo shop

Before we get into drawing traditional tattoos, it’s important to understand that, as a tattoo artist, you’ll be expected to know a bit about the background of traditional tattoos and how they still affect tattooing today. 

Traditional style tattoos took form in the 1930-40s when soldiers would tattoo patriotic symbols on one another using simple designs. This imagery inspired Sailor Jerry , who then perfected the style that later became so popular.

Today, while the designs can portray just about anything, all American traditional tattoos have the same aesthetic:

  • Thick black lines that are all one line weight
  • Use only traditional tattoo colors (red,yellow, green, and black)
  • 2-D designs meant to resemble drawings

Why Old School Tattoos are Still Important for New Artists

When it comes to traditional tattoos, some artists fall in love with the style, and others…not so much. However, even if American traditional style isn’t your favorite, we recommend at least getting a little bit of experience with them for 2 reasons:

If you’re an apprentice, you’ll be expected to learn the old school tattoo style.

Most tattoo artists will want their apprentices to be able to draw every tattoo style well, and that includes American traditional. If you want to get an apprenticeship, you should have traditional tattoo drawings in your portfolio .

Studying American traditional style is the fastest way to learn tattoo design if you can’t draw. 

While the American traditional tattoo style does have a lot of rules, it is the easiest style to learn if you need to work on your drawing skills. It’s a 2-D style and uses elements your clients will want for the rest of your career like roses, skulls, anchors, daggers, animals, etc.

The Difference Between American Traditional Tattoos and Neo Traditional Tattoos

Because neo traditional tattoos were born from the traditional style, the line between the two can sometimes seem blurry. When you’re looking at a tattoo and see that it has different line weights and uses colors outside the traditional palette of red, yellow, and green, then the tattoo is neo traditional. The different line weights used can also make a neo traditional tattoo seem like it has more “depth” than an American traditional tattoo.

traditional american tattoo of a panther

Tutorials: How to Draw Traditional Style Tattoos

When you’re drawing traditional tattoos, you’ll only use one line weight, meaning all your lines will have the same “thickness.” (you’ll follow this rule while tattooing, too, by only using one round liner, usually a 14 rl.), while we’ll be diving into roses, skulls, and swallows in this article, we recommend creating every design in stages, no matter what you’re drawing., how to draw sailor jerry roses:, how to draw traditional skull tattoos:, how to draw old school style swallows:, wing styles.

You might want the wings on your swallows to be in different positions. The most important part of drawing these wings is remembering that the base of the wing always starts at the same place on the bird, no matter what position the wing is in. As long as you start the line in the right place, it’ll be easier to draw the wing in a natural position.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Tail Styles

Some artists like to add extra details to the tail. If you add details, sure you leave enough space so that when the tattoo ink expands overtime, you’ll still be able to see each individual line.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Other Common Imagery in Traditional Tattoos

Butterflies, moths, wolves, tigers, bears, panthers, snakes, eagles, owls, hourglasses, skulls, portraits, pin up girls, guns, and daggers are all common elements in traditional tattoo design.

american traditional bear tattoos

Additionally, because so many sailors in the early 1900s were tattooed, nautical themes are found often in American Traditional like anchors, lighthouses, mermaids, ships, sharks, octopuses, messages in a bottle, compasses, and rope.

Some of these elements can be used to create a better “flow” on the body. For example, using a dagger in your designs can emphasize the lines of the body, while using a rope “frame” makes designs more circular to fit rounded areas better.

american traditional dagger tattoos

How to Paint Traditional Style Designs

After you are happy with your line work, you’ll put in your shading first and then add color. We recommend using Doc Martins watercolors of Copic markers.

Know Where to Put Shading

Even though traditional tattoos are meant to look 2-D, they still have shading. Generally, you will place shading in areas that are:

  • Further away from your eye (if the object were 3-D)
  • Are “underneath” another object

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Don’t Let Shading Hide Your Linework

Sometimes, you’ll use shading to hide areas of your linework (especially if you make a mistake). However, adding shading on both sides of a line can make the design look flat and merged together.. The best way to avoid this is to leave gaps between areas of shading on one or both sides of a line.  

For example, leaving gaps between areas of shading on this rose makes it easier to see each petal. Without breaking up the shading, the rose has an awkward black circle in the middle (see the first and second image below).

Additionally, only shading on one side of the line adds dimension to the design. If you added shading on both sides of the line (like in the third image), it would be hard to make the middle of the rose bud pop.

Spit Shading

Getting smooth shading with watercolor can be difficult if there’s too much water on the page. This is why some artists will use two paint brushes to “spit shade” instead.  

Make sure the watercolors or India ink you’re using is non-toxic before practicing spit shading.

How to Add Color  

Just like tattooing, you always want to put in your darkest ink colors first. this is why you should always fill in areas that need black shading first before moving onto your colors. if you add it later, the water from your colored ink will pick up the black and make it dark and dull., for traditional designs, you would add color in this order: black, green, red, and yellow., if you don’t want to color your designs with watercolor, you can use markers (like copics) instead., using markers to simulate watercolor.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

If you struggle with painting, you can use Copic markers to simulate the “fade” of watercolor by using descending shades right next to each other.

Pro Tip: 

To get that “old paper” look, you can stain the paper with coffee. Do this before you paint if you’re using watercolors, as watercolor is soluble even after it’s dry. This is not recommended if you’re using Copic markers, since you’ll be working on digital photo paper that won’t stain well.

Plan Out Where You’ll Add Skin Breaks

When you’re painting a design, you want to consider where to leave white space. This white space will later be skin breaks when you’re tattooing. Skin breaks are important to your tattoos because you can use them as “highlights.”

Instead of adding white ink to your design (which will fade over time because it’s lighter than skin tone) you can use skin breaks to create highlights that will never fade.

Additionally, using skin breaks makes the tattoo faster to complete since you won’t be trying to saturate the skin tone.

sketchbook tattoo ideas

To add extra color and dimension, many traditional tattoos will have small areas of red in the background of their traditional tattoos. Because red is a powerful color, it works great for making tattoos “pop” against the skin.

american traditional eagle tattoo

How to Tattoo Traditional Style

The American traditional tattoo style has been around for nearly 100 years. And in that time, tattoo artists have created an iconic aesthetic. Knowing what tools to use can help you create that same “old-school look” on your clients.

Needle Groupings for Traditional Tattoos

Traditional tattoos can be tricky because you really want to get all the lines in one pass. While other styles make it easier to cover mistakes up, American Traditional is known for its thick, bold lines created with a 14 round liner.

For shading and color packing, you should always go with the largest mag you can use for the design. A lot of traditional artists use flat mags instead of curved mags, since flat mags were the only option back when the old school style was developing.

Pro Tip: Use One Medium

A lot of artists believe that old school tattoos age better because they use thick lines and lots of black ink. In theory, this prevents them from fading, and because the lines are spaced out, they won’t blur together as they expand over time.

Ink Color Suggestions

sketchbook tattoo ideas

American traditional tattoos use red, green, yellow, and black ink only. By now, you’ve probably noticed that each of the colors are a very specific and vibrant shade. If you’re not sure where to pick them up, here’s a quick list of our favorites:

  • Hawink - True Green
  • Hawink - Fire Red
  • Hawink - Scarlet Red
  • Hawink - Atomic Yellow
  • Hawink - Super Black

American Traditional Sleeve “Filler”

American traditional tattoos have very defined shapes and edges. They don’t flow into one another the way other styles (like Japanese) would, unless you plan out the sleeve in advance (see images below). If a client knows that they want a full sleeve, it’s easier to create a design that leaves very little “blank space.”  

traditional ship tattoos

More often than not, your customers will have a bunch of smaller tattoos that they want combined into a full sleeve. Luckily, there are a few ways you can “fill” in the area and maintain the traditional tattoo style, even if they don’t have space for a full design.

Speckled stars filler.

For tiny spaces where even small designs won’t fit, artists will use dots and simple five-point stars to fill in gaps. Even though both clients in the images below have similar tattoos, the sleeves on the right appear more “full” because the gaps are filled. 

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Spiderwebs are often used around the elbows on American Traditional sleeves.

All-Black Filler 

If your client wants a darker sleeve, you can fill in empty spaces with plain black ink or clouds.

If you want to use plain black ink, you can still make random shapes look cohesive by mimicking other designs. In the image on the left, the artist filled in extra space with black shapes but used the scalloped edges from the actual designs in the sleeve. This makes the extra shapes less noticeable and feel like they’re meant to be a part of the sleeve.

Clouds are a great way to fill in extra space (particularly around ships, anchors, and other nautical imagery). In the image on the right, the artist used both black and grey and colorful clouds to pull different designs into one sleeve. 

American traditional tattoos

Floral Filler

If a client has room for a flower, you can fill surrounding crevices with leaves, curlicues, and smaller flower buds. Because these are organic shapes and can flow in nearly any direction, they’re a great option for filling awkward gaps (see images below).

traditional american tattoo

Prepare for a Tattooing Career with the Artist Accelerator Program

Learning about different tattoo styles is an important step in your journey, but it can also be pretty eye-opening to how difficult tattooing can be. without the right knowledge, it’s impossible to level up your skills and become a professional tattoo artist., however, finding the straight-forward information you need to progress is difficult. and with so much out there online, it’s hard to avoid picking up bad habits from incorrect and outdated resources..

This is one of the biggest struggles new tattooers face, and too many talented artists have given up their goal of getting into tattooing because of the years it would take to unlearn their bad habits.

That’s why aspiring artists are learning to tattoo with the Artist Accelerator Program’s structured course. As a student, you learn every step of the tattooing process from professional artists with the experience and advice you need to build your skills and create incredible tattoos. 

With the Artist Accelerator, you can stop wasting time searching through incorrect information. You just get the clear, easy-to-understand lessons you need to start improving fast… along with support and personalized feedback from professional artists in our online Mastermind group.

Over 2500 students have already gone through the course, with many of them opening up their own studios. If you want to join them and learn the skills you need to start tattooing full time faster…

Click here to learn more about the Artist Accelerator Program .

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Tattooing 101's Artist Accelerator 90 day program is the closest thing to a real apprenticeship

sketchbook tattoo ideas

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How to Tattoo for Beginners

Nathan is a licensed professional tattoo artist with over 8 years’ experience working at studios across the globe, including Celebrity Ink, the world's largest tattoo studio chain. When he's not tattooing, he spends his free time sharing his experience and knowledge with aspiring artists who dream of pursuing a career in the tattooing industry.

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Hey Nathan this is Jordan, a student from last year or so that wasnt able to afford your class in the long run, I needed a refund because of issues at home : (.. I'm not sure if you remember me or not…. I have several things I'd like to talk with you about, one concerning any possible way we could get me back in with you guys! I've already worked in a shop for a year tattooing since the first day but I've never been apprenticed and I have alot of set backs in the town I live in… which I'll tell ya later if you're concerned. anyways get back to me bro

Hey man, happy to help and see what we can do. Shoot me an email at [email protected] and we’ll go from there

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Introduction

sketchbook tattoo ideas

As an artist, one of the most important tools you will use is your sketchbook. It’s where you can experiment with new techniques, practice your skills, and record your ideas.

Choosing the best sketchbook for your needs can make a big difference in the quality of your work and your overall experience.

In this post, we’ll be discussing the best sketchbooks for artists in 2023. We’ll cover a wide range of options, from toned paper and wet media to thick paper and watercolor paper.

We’ll also look at factors such as spiral binding, recycled paper, and the importance of acid-free paper.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a professional artist, this guide will help you find the right sketchbook for your needs. So let’s dive in and explore the world of sketchbooks!

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Choosing the best Sketchbook

When it comes to choosing the best sketchbook, there are a few factors to consider. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most important ones:

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Think of the grit of your paper as sandpaper. The bigger the sandpaper grit, the more ‘dirt’ it takes of. So the more texture in your drawing paper, the more color a colorpencil leaves behind after one stroke. Don’t push the grit down by coloring too hard! It will make the next passes impossible if you want to blend!

1. Paper Types and Quality

The quality of the paper in your sketchbook is critical for producing the best artwork.

Consider the type of medium you plan to use, such as dry or wet media or coloured pencils, and choose paper that is appropriate.

Look for sketchbooks with thick, tan-toned paper, smooth, or textured paper depending on your artistic style and preferred medium. Artists usually opt for toned sketchbook paper.

Acrylic paper and recycled paper are also popular choices for specific types of artwork.

A big grit in the paper gives a nice texture to your drawing, and pencils willl give off more pigment when striking over a gritty surface. A smoother grit won’t show too much papertexture through, and makes it more ideal if you want to make more realistic designs where every mm² counts. Here you will need more passes with your pencil to leave as much pigment.

2. Binding Style and Durability

The binding and durability of your sketchbook can affect how well it holds up over time. There are three types of sturdy binding – spiral bound, hardbound, and tape bound.

A spiral-bound sketchbook or sewn binding options are popular, while hard or softcover options can provide varying levels of protection for your artwork.

Consider how you plan to use your sketchbook and whether you need a more durable option for frequent use or travel.

A spiral bound sketchbook is easier handled. If you plan on taking your book everywhere, on the train, in the couch, etc.. then this spiral is more usefull.

The spirals make the sheets have a bit room to move up and down, and can therefor smear out the graphite in between sheets.

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A hard or tape bound sketchbook is a bit more difficult to turn the pages, and keep it open while drawing without the previous page turning back automaticaly. But it then looks classier when presenting your book.

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3. Size and Format

Consider the size of your sketchbook and whether you want it to be portable or large enough to accommodate more detailed drawings.

A pocket sketchbook is a great option for artists on the go, while larger sketchbooks are ideal for more detailed work.

Also, the size and format of your sketchbook will largely depend on your personal preferences and artistic needs. Common sizes include 3/5-10 and 4/3-7, while popular formats include portrait and landscape orientation.

Think about where you plan to use your sketchbook and what feels comfortable for you to hold and draw on.

4. Cover Material

Softcover sketchbooks are more flexible and easier to carry around, while hardcover sketchbooks are more durable and offer more protection for your work.

 Hardcovers present more nice to if you show of your work.

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5. Page Count, Perforated Pages, and Interior Pockets

The number of pages in your sketchbook can vary greatly depending on your needs.

Look for options with perforated pages if you plan to tear out or sell individual pieces, and consider sketchbooks with interior pockets for holding art supplies.

These factors can also affect the overall weight and thickness of white paper in your sketchbook.

The price of your sketchbook will depend on several factors , including size, format, paper quality, binding, and page count.

Set a budget that works for you and consider options within that price range.

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7. Accessibility

If you plan to take your sketchbook on the go, consider options that are easy to carry around in a tote bag or backpack.

Some sketchbooks come with elastic closure bands or are completely flat, making them more portable.

By considering these factors and choosing a sketchbook that suits your needs, you’ll be well on your way to creating better art in 2023.

In the following chapters, we’ll take a closer look at some of the specific types of sketchbooks available and what they’re best suited for.

Sketchbook Options for Different Mediums

When it comes to choosing a sketchbook, the type of medium you use will heavily influence your decision.

Here are some of the best sketchbooks for different mediums:

1. Best Sketchbooks for Dry Media

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For artists who primarily use pencils and colored pencils, a sketchbook with smooth paper is essential.

The Art Alternatives Sketches Pocket Hardcover Sketchbook is a great option, featuring 112 pages of bright white paper that can handle graphite, charcoal, and colored pencils with ease.

Another great option is the Stillman & Birn Alpha Series Sketchbook , which features a high-quality, heavyweight vellum paper surface that is perfect for a dry medium.

2. Best Sketchbooks for Wet Media

If you’re an artist who primarily works with watercolor, gouache paint, or acrylic paint, you’ll want a sketchbook with thicker paper.

The Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Sketchbook is a popular choice, with 140lb cold-pressed thick paper that is perfect for watercolor and other gouache paint.

The Canson XL Series Watercolor Sketchbook is another great option, with 30 sheets of acid-free paper that can withstand multiple washes without bleeding through.

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3. Best Sketchbooks for Markers and Pens

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Artists who work with markers and pens, including Copic markers and gel pens, need a toned sketchbook with smooth paper that won’t bleed or smudge.

The Moleskine Art Collection Sketchbook is a favorite of many artists, featuring 165gsm, acid-free paper that is perfect for pen and marker work.

Another option is the Bee Paper Super Deluxe Sketchbook , which features heavyweight, ultra-smooth paper that is perfect for ink and markers.

4. Best Sketchbooks for Mixed Media Artworks

If you like to work with a combination of wet and dry media, you’ll want a versatile sketchbook that can handle it all.

The Stillman & Birn Zeta Series Sketchbook is a great option, with heavyweight paper that can handle everything from watercolor to graphite.

Another great option is the Strathmore 500 Series Mixed Media Sketchbook , which features paper that is designed to handle both wet and dry media.

No matter what medium you work with, there is a sketchbook out there that will meet your needs.

Consider the type of paper, binding, and size that will work best for your artwork, and don’t be afraid to try different sketchbooks until you find the perfect one for you.

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Sketchbook Recommendations

Now that you have a better idea of the factors to consider when choosing a sketchbook and the best options for different mediums, it’s time to provide some recommendations.

Here is a list of recommended sketchbooks based on different factors and mediums:

Stillman & Birn Alpha Series

This sketchbook features heavyweight, acid-free, and archival-quality paper that is perfect for dry media.

The paper in most sketchbooks is also smooth , which allows for easy pencil and colored pencil drawings. The sketchbook comes in a variety of sizes , including a pocket portrait (for good portrait orientation) and larger sizes, and it is available in both hard and softcover options .

Art Alternatives Sketches in the Making Very Big Hardcover Sketchbook 

This is the best sketchbook for those looking for a larger size for their dry media drawings.

It features 600 pages of acid-free, cream-colored paper that is suitable for a range of dry media, including graphite, charcoal, and colored pencils.

The hardcover is sturdy , and the sketchbook lays flat when open.

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Strathmore 400 Series Watercolor Sketchbook

This sketchbook features acid-free, heavy-weight paper that is perfect for watercolor, gouache, and other wet media.

The paper is also cold-pressed, which provides a slightly textured surface for added depth and dimension to your artwork.

The sketchbook comes in different sizes , including a portable 5.5×8″ option.

Stillman & Birn Zeta Series

This sketchbook features heavyweight, archival-quality paper that is perfect for a wet medium, including watercolor, gouache, and acrylics.

The paper is smooth and also accepts dry media well. The sketchbook comes in a variety of sizes , including a portable 5.5×8.5″ option, and it is available in both hard and softcover options .

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Canson XL Series Marker Paper Pad

This sketchbook features 100 sheets of smooth, bleed-proof paper that is perfect for markers, pens, and other similar mediums.

The paper is also acid-free and has a bright white color . The sketchbook comes in different sizes , including a portable 9×12″ option.

Moleskine Art Collection Sketchbook

This sketchbook features acid-free paper that is suitable for pens, markers, and other mediums.

The paper is also heavy enough to resist bleeding through , and the sketchbook features a durable hardcover that makes it easy to carry around in a tote bag.

The sketchbook comes in different sizes , including a pocket-sized option.

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4. Best toned Sketchbooks for Mixed Media Artworks

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Stillman & Birn Nova Series

This sketchbook features heavyweight paper that is perfect for mixed media artworks, including both wet and dry media.

The paper is also pH-neutral, which makes it suitable for a range of mediums. The sketchbook comes in different sizes , including a portable 5.5×8.5″ option, and it is available in both hard and softcover options .

Strathmore 400 Series Toned Tan Sketchbook

This sketchbook features toned paper that is perfect for creating mixed-media artwork. The paper is also acid-free and comes in a smooth surface that works well with pencils, pens, and markers.

The sketchbook comes in different sizes , including a portable 5.5×8.5″ option, and it features a sturdy wire binding that allows it to lie flat when opened.

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Tips for Making the Most Out of Your Sketchbook

High-quality sketchbooks are an essential tool for artists of all levels. They provide a space to practice, experiment, and document creative ideas.

Whether you are a beginner or a professional, there are many ways to make the most out of your sketchbook. Here are some tips to help you get started:

The more you use your sketchbook, the more progress you will make. Set aside time each day or week to sketch and practice, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

Consistency is crucial for improving your skills and developing your personal style.

Sketchbooks are a great place to experiment and try out new techniques. Don’t be afraid to use different types of paper, mediums, and tools to see what works best for you.

This can help you discover new approaches and styles that you may not have considered before.

Adding your own personal touch to your sketchbook can make it more meaningful and enjoyable to use.

Consider using an elastic closure band to keep the soft cover of your sketchbook closed and secure, or attaching a drawing board to the cover for added support while sketching.

Organizing your sketches can make it easier to find specific ideas and reference material later on. Consider using sticky notes or labeling sections of your sketchbook for different types of sketches or themes.

Sharing your sketches with others can be a great way to get feedback and connect with other artists.

Consider joining an online community or sharing your sketches on social media to get feedback and support from others.

Sketchbooks vary, some with black paper, others with white; some with glue binding, and others thread bound. With such varieties, you need to know the types of pens ( e.g. a ballpoint pen, fountain pens), inks (e.g. india ink and markers (e.g. acrylic markers) that are best for your sketchbook. However, there are versatile sketchbooks that can take any.

Summarily, a sketchbook is an essential tool for artists who want to improve their skills and develop their personal style. By practicing consistently, experimenting with different mediums and techniques, personalizing your sketchbook, organizing your sketches, and sharing your work, you can make the most out of your sketchbook and take your art to the next level.

Little note

There is a little difference between a sketchbook and a sketch pad. A sketch pad is a sketchbook larger than 11″x14″ and is often tape or spiral bound.

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In conclusion, choosing the right sketchbook is crucial for artists who want to hone their skills and express their creativity. By considering factors such as size, paper quality, binding, and price, artists can find a sketchbook that meets their specific needs and preferences.

Moreover, selecting a sketchbook that is suitable for the mediums they use, such as dry or wet mediums, can make a huge difference in the outcome of their artwork.

Making the most out of a sketchbook is also important. By consistently practicing and experimenting with different mediums and techniques, artists can improve their skills and develop their style.

Personalizing and organizing the sketchbook, such as adding an elastic closure band or a drawing board to the cover, can also make the sketchbook more functional and convenient to use.

We encourage artists to explore different sketchbook options and find the perfect one that suits their needs. With the right sketchbook, artists can create art anytime, anywhere, and unleash their full creative potential.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a sketchbook, start sketching, and unleash your creativity!

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Best Artist Sketchbook FAQ's:

While you can technically use any paper for sketching, it’s important to consider the quality and thickness of the paper. Sketchbooks are specifically designed for artwork, and they usually have papers with thick pages and of higher quality than regular paper.

Besides from the thickness, you should decide what grit you want. The grit you want is expressed as ‘smooth’ or ‘textured’. A big grit is a big texture and will leave it’s texture to shine through your drawing. A smooth grid, won’t show much texture through your drawing, and is perhaps better for realism drawing where every mm² of detail counts.

The size of your sketchbook depends on your personal preference and the type of artwork you create. Some artists prefer smaller sketchbooks for quick sketches and ideas, while others prefer larger sketchbooks for more detailed drawings. An other argument for size is if you want to take it with you? If so, it should fit in your purse or backpack.

The type of binding you choose depends on how you plan to use your sketchbook. Spiral-bound sketchbooks are convenient for artists who need to fold their sketchbooks back or want to remove pages easily. Eg. when traveling or taking your sketchbook with you everywhere. Hardcover sketchbooks are more durable and offer a more stable surface to work on, the sheets have less room to scratch over each other and thus smear your graphite.

Yes, some sketchbooks are specifically designed for watercolors and can handle the wet medium. It’s important to check the specifications of the sketchbook before using it with watercolors to ensure it can handle the medium.

Sometimes they are even glue bound on 3 sides of the paper, for maximum stretching when wet. You can easily tear of the page then when dry.

When looking for a sketchbook for drawing, consider the quality of the paper, thickness, size, and binding. It’s also helpful to consider any additional features, such as a hardcover or perforated pages.

Want to read more articles?

sketchbook tattoo ideas

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365 Drawing Ideas for Your Sketchbook

Need some ideas for what to draw in your sketchbook? This list of 365 drawing ideas is sure to inspire you to doodle, draw, or sketch something every single day of the year!

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Need some ideas for what to draw in your sketchbook? This list of 365 drawing ideas is sure to inspire you to doodle, draw, or sketch something every single day of the year whether you use ink, pen, pencil or charcoal to create.

You can choose whether to draw one drawing a day, go in the list in order, or simply skip around and choose the ones you like best!

Here are 365 Drawing Ideas to Inspire:

1. view from the park.

Parks are great sources of inspiration for drawing. Snap a few of your own reference photos of monuments, benches, and scenes that capture your eye or spend some time in the park with your sketchbook drawing the different scenes you notice.

2. Hot Air Balloon

Hot air balloons are mesmerizing to watch in the sky and can be a beautiful and whimsical thing to learn how to draw. While it’s not too common anymore to see one floating past you in real-life, there are MANY photos out there that you can use as a reference.

Snap a photo of yourself or try drawing yourself while you look in a mirror.

You might see leaves on the ground during autumn or notice them on trees in the spring and summer. Choose a few different leaf shapes to draw.

They say once you learn how to ride a bike you never forget – so why not try the same thing with learning to draw a bicycle? You can make it realistic or simply create a fun doodle.

6. Hedgehog

Hedgehogs are adorable spiny creatures most commonly found in Europe, Asia, and Africa, and in New Zealand. Draw one today!

7. Baseball and/or Baseball Glove

This was actually an assignment we had in high school to practice realistic sketching and shading using nothing more than a #2 pencil!

8. Fruit Bowl

The classic fruit bowl still life might not sound like the most creative idea for drawing, but have you tried it? You might just be surprised. You could also draw a still life of bananas, oranges, apples, or grapes.

9. Tropical Fish

There are so many types of tropical fish to consider as an idea for things that are easy to draw – choose from an angel fish, a clown fish or even maybe a butterflyfish!

10. Skyscrapers

We see so many great examples of skyscraper architecture in our cities that there are endless sources of inspiration for types of skyscrapers you could draw. Take your sketchbook out locally to a city near you, or spend some time drawing iconic skyscrapers such as the Bank of China Tower, the Taipei 101, or the Chrysler Building.

Dragons are mythical creatures that have been a drawing subject since ancient times. Draw a dragon with a knight in shining armor, a Chinese dragon, or maybe even a friendly dragon that helps you roast marshmallows.

Unlock the power of your creativity by drawing some keys! You can choose to draw old fashioned skeleton keys or draw a sketch of the keys out of your purse or your house key.

13. Volcano

Have you ever seen a volcano in real life? Even if you’ve only seen one in movies or in photographs they can be fascinating subjects for art and sketching.

14. Sail Boat

Sailboats are often see on lakes and at marinas and can have all sorts of beautiful designs on the sails.

Draw a teddy bear, a brown bear or a grizzly bear – your choice!

Lay down on a blanket in your yard or at a park and spend some time cloud-gazing for inspiration on what to draw.

17. Family Member

You can have a family member pose while you create a portrait sketch of them, or draw a portrait based on a photo of someone you know.

What can I say about sharks? They have big teeth, they live in the ocean, and they can be very fun and popular to draw.

19. Feather

Birds of a feather…are a great thing to draw! You can make them icon style, or try to recreate a realistic feather on paper.

20. T-Shirt

Surely you have a t-shirt in your closet that would make for a great subject for drawing.

21. The Kitchen

Kitchens are where food is made and are often overlooked as the perfect place to sketch to get a glimpse into your everyday life.

22. Satellite:

Satellites are constantly in orbit around our earth, and they are very interesting looking items with many different geometric lines to use to build your drawing skills.

23. Penguin

Penguins are seabirds that live in mostly cold climates. They don’t fly but they sure do love to swim!

24. Fashion Sketch

What’s trending in the fashion world? Come up with your own fashion designs or take inspiration from some of the leading fashion designers to create your own fashion sketches.

The best part about aliens as a drawing idea? You can make them look like almost anything your imagination can think of, since it is very rare to actually see them in real-life.

26. Pirate Ship

Ahoy Matey! Pirate ships are a great thing to draw in your sketchbook and can be realistic or make your own cartoon.

27. Skateboard

The nice thing about drawing a skateboard is its not nearly as intimidating as trying to actually ride a skateboard.

Celebrate today by drawing a beautiful cake! You can choose how many layers, what kind of icing, and what type of topper fits the occasion. There are so many ideas to draw for what kind of cake you make!

29. Butterfly

There are so many different kinds of beautiful butterflies you could draw, such as monarchs or swallowtail butterflies.

30. Race Car

Vroom vroom, race cars are designed for speed. Draw your favorite kind of race car, whether it’s an old fashioned derby style car or a racecar fit for Nascar tournament.

If you have a cat you can draw a portrait of your own pet or of course you could make a cartoon cat – we all know and love Garfield the Cat and his affinity for lasagna.

With over 190 registered dog breeds by the American Kennel Club you could almost make it a daily challenge just to draw a different type of dog.

33. Super Hero

It’s a bird, it’s a plane…it’s super man! Draw one of your favorite super heroes or create your own!

34. Cup of Coffee or Tea

If you’re going to drink coffee or tea every day, you might as well sketch it, right? Not a coffee or tea drinker? You can always sketch a glass of water.

35. Dinosaur

Dinosaur…roar! Draw a T-rex, a brontosaurus, a triceratops, pterodactyl or a velociraptor if you wish – there are so many great dinosaurs to choose from as sketchbook inspiration!

36. Web Icons

Web icons have become so common place we see them everywhere online. Sketch some icons for your favorite social media channels or visit a site like flaticon.com  for inspiration!

Pizza can be a lot of fun to draw, especially because you get to choose the toppings! Will you make it a veggie pizza, pepperoni pizza or maybe a Hawaiian pizza with pineapple and ham?

38. Dandelions

Every kid knows if you blow on a dandelion and make a wish your wish will come true, much to the dismay of gardeners everywhere who view them as weeds. These edible flowers make for a great easy drawing idea.

39. Hair Styles

Draw a braid, an up-do, or even crazy Medusa inspired snake hair if you wish.

40. Necklace, Bracelet or Rings

Jewelry can be a very interesting thing to sketch or draw, especially if the jewelry has special meaning to you, such as a necklace or ring passed on through your family or given to you by someone special.

41. Ice Cream Cone

Ice cream comes in all sorts of different flavors, and of course there are many different shapes and sizes of cones to choose from, whether its a cake cone, a sugar cone or a waffle cone!

42. Aquarium

Aquariums are beautiful habitats for all sorts of fish and can include plants or even decorative items.

43. Haunted House

It doesn’t have to be Halloween to enjoy drawing a spooky and haunted house. Don’t forget details like cracked windows and bent railings – and maybe even a few spirits peeking through.

Whether you draw a beautiful covered bridge scene or a bridge that goes over a river or harbor through the city, bridges give you plenty of architectural inspiration to use as drawing ideas!

45. Crazy Hats

Go ahead, give yourself permission to be a mad hatter and design as many crazy hats as you can think of!

46. Chevron Patterns

Chevrons are fun to draw and there are so many different pattern variations you can try!

You could draw a chandelier, a bedside table lamp, or maybe even a lava lamp!

48. Cruise Ship

Cruise ships are designed to take tourists to view the sights and scenes along the ocean coast. Draw the view from the deck or draw the view from one you can see passing by on the coast.

49. Planets in Outer Space

Draw a single planet like Mars, Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Neptune or Jupiter – or draw the whole solar system!

They say eyes are the window of the soul, and it’s true you can learn a lot about a person’s feelings and thoughts based on how their eyes look. Draw your own eyes or draw the mesmerizing eyes of different animals.

51. Caricature

A caricature is a type of cartoon drawing where something about the subject is exaggerated to be funny. For example, if your friend loves to knit or crochet, you might exaggerate the ball of yarn in their hand. Use this drawing idea to make a funny sketch of your friends, family members or even a pet or celebrity.

Everybody needs shoes to walk around, so go ahead and grab the pair of shoes you wear everyday and sketch them!

53. Dream Catcher

Dream catchers are designed to catch bad dreams and keep nightmares away. They are a lot of fun to draw!

54. Rocket Ship

Fly to the moon or a distant galaxy far, far away in your very own rocket ship you can design with this simple idea for drawing.

55. House Plants

Whether it’s a succulent, an aloe vera plant, or a terrarium, if you have anything green growing in your house it can be an excellent source of inspiration for drawing ideas.

56. Inspiring Quote

Practice your hand-lettering by illustrating one of your favorite quotes, sayings, or verse from a poem.

Guitars are stringed instruments that can instantly make us tap our feet and sing along. You can choose to sketch an acoustic guitar or an electric guitar.

58. Deciduous Trees

Deciduous trees are the type of trees that lose their leaves in the winter. Examples include oak trees, maple trees, cherry trees, and ash trees. You can choose what season to show the tree – is it spring, winter, summer or autumn?

59. Circus Clown

Clowns can be funny, happy, sad…or even scary! You get to decide which you wish to draw with this drawing prompt.

60. Fairy Tale

Illustrate a scene from your favorite fairy tale. Some examples include Snow White and the 7 Dwarves, Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, or Hansel and Gretel.

Bottles come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. You could draw a message in a bottle, soda bottles, apothecary bottles and more.

62. What You Last Ate:

What you last ate for breakfast, lunch or dinner is a simple and obvious drawing idea, but so few people think to actually do it and is a great idea for something to include in a sketchbook.

63. Parrot:

Parrots are colorful and tropical birds, so pull out the colored pencils or some inks to make this come alive in your journal.

What is your favorite book? You could choose to draw a stack of books or draw the cover of a recent book you’ve read and enjoyed. 

65. Elephants

They say an elephant never forgets, and if you draw one you will have a picture to remember an elephant by forever!

66. Camping Scene

Whether you want to draw a travel trailer or a tent, sketch a camping scene. Don’t forget the campfire and marshmallows!

Tigers are big cats with interesting black and orange striped patterns, making them the perfect subject for a page in your sketchbook.

Cartoon-like roses can be easy to draw – they are just a spiral and a circle. Or, challenge your skills to draw a life-like rose complete with petals and stem – just watch out for those thorns!

Zebras are native to Africa and are another interesting animal to draw that are best well known for their black and white stripes.

70. Monster

Could there be a monster hiding under your bed, or in your closet? Probably not, but you never know – which is why you should draw a bigger, more friendlier monster to protect you and scare away all other monsters.

You might remember globes from school and they make for fantastic drawing objects, especially if you are a travel or geography buff.

72. Staircase

We see steps everywhere in regular life, whether it’s in your house, in a park, or maybe even a spiraling staircase along a water tower like in the photo above I took at a nearby park by my house.

73. Peacock

My grandparents used to have peacocks when I was a kid, and they are absolutely beautiful and incredible birds with detailed feathers that are perfect for drawing!

74. The Ocean

You could create an under water scene complete with coral and sea creatures like whales, an octopus and more.

75. Crocodile or Alligator

Crocodiles have a longer, V-shaped snout, while alligators have broad U shaped snouts. Either way, you could draw a snapping good crocodile or alligator in your journal – maybe even both!

76. A Clock

What’s the time? There’s always time to draw something daily! Draw a clock tower, a grandfather’s clock, or an alarm clock.

77. Gumball Machine

A gumball machine can be a lot of fun to draw, and of course there is no rule you have to fill it with gumballs – you can always choose to fill it with a different type of candy, it is your drawing afterall!

78. Giraffes

Known for their long necks, make sure you don’t forget their third horn at the top of their heads. We love visiting the giraffes named Louis and Socks at the local zoo where we live.

79. Bubbles

Bubbles make for a great ideas for what to draw, especially because they are relatively easy for beginners and you could fill a whole page with bubbles in no time!

80. Sports Player

Do you have a favorite sport? Sketch a player in action whether its soccer, baseball, football, hockey or badminton.

81. Airplane

There are so many options for what you could draw with an airplane, whether its the plane’s exterior, the interior, the view from the window, or even possibly the pilot’s cockpit.

82. Sunflowers

Sunflowers are bright, cheerful, and one of my favorite flowers to see standing tall in the summer sun.

83. Mountains

Try your hand at this idea for drawing mountains by sketching a Rocky Mountain or Appalachian mountain landscape.

84. Bath Tub

Rub-a-dub Dub, draw a bathtub! Don’t forget your rubber duckie!

There are so many great herbs that you can use for drawing. If you grow your own fresh herbs, set them up in a way you can sketch them as a real subject or use reference photos for herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme.

86. Family heirlooms

Family heirlooms are always special, and what better way to preserve them than to sketch them in your art journal?

If you’re a lucky duck, you might even be able to see these water birds at a nearby park or lake by you, but plenty of reference photos abound – you can even use the photo I took of a duck here if you’d like as inspiration!

88. Wildflowers

Draw a beautiful landscape meadow of wildflowers, or take inspiration from botanists through history who meticulously sketched and documented wildflowers in the field.

Someone once told me I didn’t draw a very serious spider, so I gave this spider a briefcase, neck tie and his own private office with a certificate just to prove how serious he was.

90. Drawing Supplies

You already have the perfect subject for drawing in your hand – a pen, pencil, bottle of ink or charcoal set all make for great things to draw.

Fairies are enchanting, tiny human-like creatures that have wings and can fly.

92. Woodland Animals

Draw a deer, a raccoon, a fox, a squirrel, or other woodland animals with this drawing idea.

93. Hippie Van

While you may not be able to actually own and live in a hippie van, you can draw one and that’s the next best thing.

94. Ostrich

Ostriches are fun to draw – and you can decide whether or not it sticks its head in the sand! {Of course, they don’t *actually do this* but that’s the nice thing about drawing, you can use your imagination!}

Whether it is just a slice of your favorite kind of pie or the whole thing, your mouth will be watering by the time you are done drawing this one!

Eggs are a great way to practice your shadowing and depth in drawing. And don’t think you’re limited to just plain white eggs like you get at the grocery store – you can always make them different hues and sizes or decorate with patterns and shapes!

Grab a dollar bill or some loose change and try drawing it. This is a great way to practice shading, depth and more if you want to create realistic drawings.

98. Cooking Utensils & Kitchen Gadgets

Don’t use your blender that often? It’s the perfect opportunity to finally put it to use as a drawing subject! You could also sketch your pots and pans, eating utensils, or other kitchen gadgets you have around the house.

99. Your House

Where we live makes for an excellent idea of what to draw, and you can choose whether to draw the interior or the exterior.

Old fashioned radios are fascinating objects, and many times they still work even in today’s world of digital media. Go for a classic vintage radio, or maybe even draw a 90’s style boombox.

101. Fast Food

You know the drill: soda, burger and fries.

We have smart phones with us almost every day – why not draw it in your sketchbook and document that? Or, draw an old rotary phone for a throwback to the days before cell phones existed.

You could draw a hammer, screw driver, drill, saw, wrench or draw the whole toolbox.

104. Arrows

There are so many different styles of arrows you could try drawing, whether you make arrow doodles or draw a realistic bow and arrow set.

105. Jelly Beans

Known for their unique shape, multiple colors and best found in Easter baskets, jelly beans are a great idea for something to draw!

106. Game Controller

Are you a gamer? Whether it’s Play Station, X-Box, a Gaming Keyboard, or an old school Atari controller, draw a game controller that reminds you of your favorite video games.

107. Soup Can

Take inspiration from Andy Warhol and try your hand at drawing a soup can.

108. Fireworks

Let your paper be the sky for a colorful display of patterns of light.

109. Forest Scene

Think trees, moss covered rocks and maybe even a stream winding through a forest scene perfect for a landscape sketch.

110. Astrological Signs & Symbols

What’s your sign? You could draw a Pisces fish, the Scales of Libra, the Scorpion of Scorpio or the Archer of Sagittarius for example.

111. Banners

Banners are a lot of fun to draw and you can make them as whimsical as you wish. I love drawing banners in my art journals!

112. Wristwatch

Do you wear a watch? Whether its a smartwatch or a classic watch you wind up, draw a wristwatch in your sketchbook.

113. Nuts, Bolts & Other Hardware

Take a walk down a hardware aisle or go through your garage to find nuts, bolts, and other miscellaneous hardware to sketch and draw.

114. Typewriter

There is something cool about a typewriter, even if they don’t make much sense in today’s digital age…they are definitely fun to draw!

115. Bunnies or Rabbits

Bunnies and rabbits are cute, soft and fluffy. I used to have one as a kid!

Ivy is a plant that spreads, often times along a wall, window or trellis and is best known for beautiful leaf shapes – perfect for drawing in your sketchbook!

117. Machines

We see all kinds of machines in our daily lives – from the washing machine, to the dishwasher to the furnace that keeps our homes warm. You could also invent your own machine!

118. Garden Tools

A garden shovel, gloves, trowel etc are all examples of common garden tools that make the perfect subject for still life drawing ideas.

119. City Skylines

Draw a silhouette of a city skyline, whether it is a local city where you live or one you want to visit someday.

120. What’s on your desk?

Take a look at what is on your desk today and sketch it – no matter how messy your desk may be!

121. Pineapple

Pineapples were named pine apples because of their exterior resembles a pine cone. Often viewed as a symbol of friendship, these tropical fruits are the perfect thing to try drawing!

122. Hearts

You can choose to draw doodle hearts, or draw an anatomically correct depiction of a human heart.

The first steam train was invented in 1804 and many people were afraid to ride them. Today, trains are still used for transportation and shipping. You can make a passenger train or a cargo train. Draw a single box car, the engine, or the caboose!

124. Lawnmower

My husband is always talking about fixing his broken lawnmower, so I had to include it on this list. You can draw a riding mower or a push mower or even a commercial lawnmower.

125. Hourglass

An hourglass is a type of sand filled timer which you’ve probably seen more often in board games.

126. Scissors

A basic and important office supply, drawing realistic scissors can be more challenging than you might think!

127. Mailbox

Everybody gets mail, so why not sketch your mailbox?

128. Ticket

Have you recently gone to an event where you needed a ticket? Draw or sketch that ticket in your sketchbook.

129. Circles

Circles might seem like a mundane drawing idea, but there are so many great ideas for drawing circular patterns and different circle sizes!

If you are lucky enough to have a grape vineyard nearby, you can find a LOT of inspiration to sketch and draw vines! Many different types of vines also grow on trees.

X-rays allow us to see inside someone or something. You can draw an X-ray view of a person or an object.

132. Tunnels

Tunnels are a great way to practice drawing perspective, especially if you are drawing the view from the beginning to the end of a tunnel.

133. People at Work

Millions of people go t work every single day. This could be construction workers, people in your office, or even the cashiers at the store.

134. Ladders

Ladders are another great exercise for drawing perspective. There are also many different kinds of ladders – from step ladders to paint ladders to imaginary ladders that climb all the way to the clouds.

135. Playground

Draw a swingset, sliding board, the view in the sandbox at a nearby park or playground where you live.

136. Swirls

Swirls are fun to draw and can be highly meditative and addictive! Fill a page with swirls or practice drawing some swirly flourishes.

137. Dancing

Draw people who are dancing, and be sure their clothes and dance moves reflect the type of music they are dancing to!

138. Sunglasses or Eyeglasses

Set up a pair of your sunglasses or eyeglasses on a table and start sketching them.

139. Hills & Valleys

Rolling hills and valleys can give a typical landscape sketch a lot of visual interest.

140. Rocks & Stones

Are you a rock collector? Have you ever been to a rocky beach or noticed rocks along the shore of a river? Take some time to draw the details of rocks or stones.

Good fences make good neighbors, according to poet Robert Frost. They also make for great drawing subjects, whether it’s a white picket fence, a split rail fence or a wrought-iron fence.

142. Triangles

There are so many different kinds of patterns you can create just with a simple triangle!

Moo! Cows can be found on farms around the world and are a great animal to try drawing – this sketch of a baby calf is so cute!

There are over 6,300 known species of frogs in the world, which means you have a lot of choices on what kind of frog to draw! Draw a tree frog, a bullfrog, an African claw frog, or other frog of your choosing.

145. Spool of Thread & Other Sewing Notions

Do you have a sewing box? A simple spool of thread and other sewing notions can make for a great still life.

146. Tomato

Some people love tomatoes, others could leave them. Either way, they make for a n excellent drawing subject.

147. Squares and Rectangles

Drawing squares and rectangles gives you plenty of opportunities to discover new patterns in your doodles. Tip: For straight lines, use a ruler!

148. Tea kettle

How about a nice relaxing cup of tea? Sketch a tea kettle in your journal.

149. Lightbulb

The symbol for creativity and ideas, light bulbs are an invention we still rely on heavily today. Try drawing something inside of a lightbulb for an illuminating challenge.

150. Party Supplies

What do you need to throw a party? You could draw party hats, noise makers, or keep it simple with just party foods.

151. Railroad tracks

Railroad tracks are very dangerous to be around, so I do not suggest trying to go near them for sketching, but there are many pictures you can use as reference and they are great practice for perspective.

Porches are welcoming gathering places for company and the perfect scene to sketch.

153. Rainbow

Rainbows are easy to draw and a great excuse to pull out the colored pencils. An easy way to remember the order of the colors is the acronym Roy G. Biv: Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, and Violet.

154. Lemonade Stand

Every kid dreams of having a lemonade stand someday, and now is your chance to finally design the lemonade stand of your dreams.

Do you play piano? You can choose to draw a close-up of the keys, someone playing the piano, an upright piano, or a baby grand piano.

156. Hallways

Interior hallways can be a great way to practice drawing perspective, especially if the hallway has a lot of doors or wall decor.

157. Watch Gears

What’s inside a watch? Lots of little gear parts that make for fun and easy drawing ideas.

It doesn’t have to be taco tuesday to draw a taco. Fill up that shell with all your favorite ingredients and toppings!

159. Paint & Paint Brush

Pull out your paints and paint brushes to set up a still life scene of an artist at work.

160. Faces With Different Emotions

So often in portraits we see people happy – try drawing faces with different emotions such as angry, sad, frustrated, or calm.

161. Dishes

Dishes can have all sorts of different patterns and styles that can make for fantastic creative inspiration.

162. Fountain

Whether its an outdoor or indoor fountain, there are all sorts of interesting details to capture when drawing a fountain.

163. Puzzle Pieces

Puzzles are always entertaining. Grab a puzzle off your game shelf and scatter a few pieces around to sketch and draw.

164. Monkey

You probably can’t have a pet monkey like Curious George in real life, but you can always draw a character of your own.

165. Angels

Angels are majestic divine beings of light, and a fantastic source of inspiration for sketching and drawing.

One of the nice things about drawing hands is you always have a realistic model attached to you! Try different poses or holding different objects.

167. Pair of Socks

Do you have a pair of crazy socks? You can sketch a pair of socks you already own, or make your own crazy sock designs.

168. Bag or Purse

We use bags all the time in our everyday life, whether it’s a shopping bag or a purse where you keep your keys, wallet and more. Draw the bag itself or draw a fashion sketch of a person wearing a bag.

169. Umbrella

Rainy days are a lot more bearable when you have a good umbrella to keep you dry!

170. Beach Scene

The beach is a relaxing and serene place to sit with a sketchbook and sketch the sights.

171. Bowling Ball and Pins

Bowling can be a lot of fun, and drawing a bowling ball and pins makes for a good drawing exercise.

172. Roller Coaster

Do you have a favorite rollercoaster ride? You can draw a lifelike imitation of a rollercoaster you love, or design your own with plenty of ups, downs, twists and turns.

We often associate witches with mean and scary looking old ladies, but Glenda the Good witch from the Wizard of Oz reminds us that not all witches are bad.

174. Headphones

Love listening to music? Don’t forget to sketch your headphones.

Are ghosts real? What do they look like? Now is your chance to draw one!

176. Paper Clips

Pull out a handful of paper clips from your office desk and sketch them.

177. King or Queen

You can draw a king or queen from history, or even imagine yourself as king or queen for the day.

178. Graffiti

Graffiti is a unique form of art and perfectly legal when done on paper.

179. Ladybugs

Ladybugs are cute beneficial insects in any garden.

180. Abstract Line Art

Use this as a chance to draw stripes or have fun with experimenting with different line angles on paper.

181. Mermaid

Fictional characters that live under the sea, mermaids have captivated the imagination of sailors and storytellers for ages.

Do you have any toys from your childhood? Pull them out and sketch them.

183. Junk Drawer

Everybody has a junk drawer – that place where stuff just ends up somehow. Go through your junk drawer and pick a couple of random objects to draw.

184. Highway road

Have you been on a any recent road trips lately? Highway roads are always an interesting thing to draw.

185. Backpack

What’s in your backpack? Whether you’re a hiker or a student or carry your laptop in a backpack, there’s plenty of different styles and shapes to choose from to draw!

186. Mushrooms

Did you know there are over 10,000 different types of mushrooms? That gives you a LOT of options for what to draw, whether you draw realistic mushrooms or fantasy style mushrooms in an enchanted forest.

187. Cactus

Whether you have a cactus growing at home or want to take inspiration from a desert landscape, cacti make for excellent drawing subjects.

188. Turtle

Don’t be shy – draw a turtle! You can make it realistic, cartoonish, or somewhere in between.

189. Seashells

Seashells are abundant in the world and come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, giving you plenty of creative options to explore when it comes to drawing them.

190. Photo Frames

Every piece of art needs a good frame, and this is a great prompt to make doodle frames or draw ornate frames inspired from vintage and antique photograph displays.

Where does the gate lead? You can draw a garden gate, a gateway to a new portal or maybe a gate to a haunted and spooky hollow.

192. Vegetables

Don’t want to eat your vegetables? Draw them instead!

I am always fascinated by the details in patchwork quilts. You can try drawing different quilt block designs, or even take inspiration from a crazy quilt with elaborate stitching and embroidery embellishing each patch!

194. Sunrise/sunset

The sun rises and sets every single day and that itself is pretty amazing! What’s a drawing prompt list without a sunset or sunrise?

You can draw your state or country’s flag, or choose to draw different flags from around the world.

There are many different types of bells, from bell towers to school bells to jingle bells.

197. Potato Chips

Are you in need of a snack? Next time you reach for that bag of potato chips, sketch it!

198. Your Closet

Open up your closet doors and sketch a scene of your current wardrobe. Hopefully you won’t find too many skeletons in there!

199. Vintage Photographs

Old vintage photos make for great drawing reference photo idea, especially when they feature historical lifestyles.

Heat things up by drawing flames or fire. You can draw a campfire, a fire in a fireplace, or flames surrounding another object.

201. Raindrops

Raindrops are their very own shape, and there are so many different ways you could interpret this! You could make raindrop patterns, or try to realistically capture what raindrops may look like on a pane of glass or when they fall and hit the ground.

Your choice – make a map of where you live, somewhere you’ve visited, or maybe even a map of a completely fictional and imaginary fantasy world.

203. Optical illusions

Optical illusions play with lines, shadows, and depth to create images that aren’t always what they appear to be. Play around with different ideas until you get a drawing that makes you look twice.

204. Snowman

Do you want to draw a snowman? You can make your snowman as elaborate or as simple as you’d like!

205. Steampunk

Steampunk is a type of science fiction where everything is steam powered. Think gears, flying contraptions, and all sorts of odd inventions. Prefer figure drawing? You could also draw people in steampunk attire!

206. Seagulls

These birds may be noisy, squacky, and annoying to deal with at the beach, but they are still beautiful to look at and the perfect subject for drawing.

207. Computer

We spend enough time at the computer, so take a break from the digital world and get out that sketchpad!

208. Chickens

Chickens come in all sorts of varieties – the American Poultry Association recognizes over 50 different breeds of chickens. You can choose to make this as simple or as complex as you wish!

209. Historic Scene

Scenes from history are always fun to illustrate, especially if you choose to depict a time before cameras were invented, which was in 1816.

210. The library

Go visit your local library and bring your sketchbook! You can choose to sketch the outside of the building or sit at a table where you can get a good view of the rows and rows of books.

211. Your grocery store

Shopping for food is an everyday necessity, and chances are you’ve been to the grocery store at least once in the past year. Draw some of the aisles, a grocery display case, or draw the exterior of the building.

212. Jar of Something

Everything in mason jars is all the rage in decor, or maybe you’re like me and love a jar of bread and butter pickles or homemade jam.

213. Numbers

You don’t have to be a mathematician to appreciate there are so many different ways to draw numbers! Practice hand-lettering in different styles or use basic numbers as a base for more elaborate doodles.

214. Your Bed

Researchers estimate the average person spends about 26 years of our lives in bed…which is a LOT of time sleeping! Give your bed its proper tribute by illustrating it in your sketchbook.

215. Impossible World

Maybe there’s an imaginary world where fish fly in the sky, or the moon is underwater…invent an imaginary fantasy world and draw it!

216. Speech Bubbles

How do you convey spoken words in your drawings? With speech bubbles of course! You can draw them comic book style or practice creating new patterns using a basic speech bubble shape.

217. Farm or Barn Scene

The Barn is an iconic image of the countryside, and no wonder – these giant buildings serve as a place to store farm equipment and provide shelter to animals. Draw a barn!

218. Labyrinth

A labyrinth is a meandering path that leads to the center of a shape. Traditionally circular in nature, they are often used in common times for reflection and meditation.

Go fly a kite! And if there’s no wind or you don’t have a kite, you can always draw one! Again, there are so many different shapes and types here to choose from!

220. Astronaut

Remember that rocket ship you drew in prompt number 54? What about the person flying that thing? Draw a picture of the astronaut brave enough to travel in your spacecraft.

Balls of yarn can be a fun challenge to draw, especially when you get into different types of hand spun yarns or art yarn!

Go ahead, take a chance…and draw some dice! Did you know there are more dice than just the average 6-sided dice? They come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, as I learned from playing Dungeons & Dragons.

223. Pumpkins

You can draw a pumpkin patch, a fall themed still life display, or maybe even carve out a face on your pumpkin and create a jack-o-lantern!

224. Flooring

Have you ever spent time staring at the floor? I know that sounds sarcastic, but you might just be surprised how many different textures and patterns exist on what we walk all over every single day.

225. Scene from a Dream

Have any crazy dreams lately? Illustrate a scene from a dream in your sketchbook. Bonus? You can interpret what that dream means based on the image you drew!

Imagine a bench. Who is sitting on it? Draw it!

227. Garden

There are so many different things you can draw for a garden, whether its a vegetable garden or a flower garden or maybe just a peaceful place outside surrounded by plants.

228. Blue Jeans

Get a pair of blue jeans out from your closet and try putting them in different poses on a table or the floor and draw what you see.

229. Wild West Scene

Cowboys, outlaws, and a good saloon make for the perfect backdrop for a wild west scene you could draw.

230. Children playing

Kids are always a source of inspiration to draw, especially when they are playing.

231. Silhouette

Silhouettes are outlines of an object, person or place. Try drawing silhouettes of people in different poses, or draw silhouettes of everyday objects around the house.

Hopefully there are no mice in your house – but they are cute, when they don’t sneak up on you! You could draw a realistic mouse, or draw personified mice characters who live in their own burrow in a meadow.

233. Baby/Infant

Like kids, babies are another great source for portrait photos. You can use a baby you know as inspiration, or dig out those old photos of you as a baby when you were new to this world.

I’d never want to see a hippo close in real life {I hear they can be very aggressive and dangerous!} but I’m definitely okay with drawing them!

When the cold wind blows you get ice! You can draw icicles hanging from the eaves of a roof, or maybe even ice cubes that are guaranteed not to melt.

236. Favorite Animated/Cartoon Character

When I was in the second grade I was so lucky to take a cartooning class where I learned to draw Mickey Mouse, Snoopy, and more. Do you have a favorite cartoon character or anime character? Try to draw them as close as the original as you can.

237. Camera

So often as artists we use reference photos to inspire our work, but we forget the camera itself can be a great drawing idea!

238. Mad Scientist’s Lab

Think bubbling potions, beakers, and oh my, what’s that monster doing under the sheet over there in the corner?

239. Wood Texture

Wood grain can be a beautiful texture to draw, especially in pencil, ink, or charcoal. There are so many options for patterns and shading!

240. Gnomes

Who doesn’t love garden gnomes? Maybe they’re tacky, but I think they’re the perfect thing to draw – especially if you draw them in different clothes and styles.

241. Life Underground

Most of the time we think about life on the surface of earth, but there’s all sorts of things that happen underground, from coal mines to subway train stations to fault lines and magma…what world do you imagine? Draw it!

Ever hear the phrase, I’m all ears? Now’s your chance to illustrate it!

We drive in cars every day and there are so many different types we see on the road. You can choose to draw your first car, your current car, or the cars you see passing by on the street near where you live.

244. Holiday scenes

There’s so many holidays we celebrate around the world – you can choose from Easter, Halloween, Christmas, Fourth of July or maybe even St. Patrick’s Day.

245. Song Lyrics

Do you have a favorite song? Illustrate a scene from the song, or practice your hand-lettering by drawing a quote of the lyrics.

246. Parking Lot

Parking lots might not sound like that exciting of an idea for drawing, but you can be surprised what happens in them! They are great places for people watching, or you could sketch the scene of one to continue a series of drawings of places around where you live.

247. Movie Scene

What’s your favorite movie? Draw a scene from a movie you love or have watched recently.

248. Xylophone

Xylophone is pretty much the only word we could think of that begins with the letter X, so it made our list. 🙂

249. City Street Scene

Walk around the city and sketch the sights on the street.

250. Award or Trophy

Have you ever been given a trophy or award for an achievement? You could also draw trophies or awards for your pets or friends, like “Best Listener” or “Most Furry”.

Look up to the night sky and draw the stars. You could also research and draw different constellations.

From dump trucks to tractor trailer trucks to pick-up trucks, there are all kinds of trucks you can draw. Above is a picture of a pick-up my brother drew.

253. Skeleton or Skull

Skeletons and skulls might be creepy to some, but they can be a lot less scary if you opt to draw a sugar skull from the Mexican Day of the Dead holiday.

Bird watchers know there are thousands of different species of birds, which means you have a lot of options here! To keep things simple, try drawing birds that are native to where you live and can be found regularly in your backyard and parks.

255. Friend

Ask a friend for a photo or see if they would be willing to pose while you draw a portrait of them.

256. Cleaning Supplies

Fact: It’s more fun to draw cleaning supplies than it is to actually do the laundry, dishes, and other household chores.

257. Wheels

From wagon wheels to car rims, there are all sorts of different types of wheels you could draw. You could also use wheels as a base for making repetitive patterns.

258. Sled Ride

Have you ever been on a sled in the winter? You can draw kids sledding or draw an old fashioned Christmas sleigh!

What’s behind that door? You can draw the door of your house, or draw a door that captures your eye and makes you want to open it…or avoid it.

260. Diamonds

Diamonds are easy things to draw and you can play with all sorts of different patterns and repetitions with them.

261. Favorite Things

What are your favorite things in the whole wide world? Draw them!

Waves are a very cool thing you can draw, whether its realistic waves in the ocean, or simply waves of lines that create a pattern.

263. School

Draw a picture of what you remember school looked like when you were a kid, or draw all the school supplies you remember needing.

264. Abandoned Warehouse

Abandoned warehouses are cool architecture places to draw, just remember that you shouldn’t actually go into an abandoned warehouse without proper permission and safety clearances – it can be VERY dangerous!

265. Cooking Spices

What’s on your spice rack? Draw it!

266. Favorite Place From Your Childhood

What is a place you remember from your childhood? It can be any place you visited that brings back happy memories.

267. Vase of Flowers

The classic still life is the perfect opportunity to practice drawing!

268. Vacation Spot

Think back on all of the places you’ve visited and vacationed at over the years. Draw a scene of one of your favorite spots!

269. News Headline

Look to the news today and draw a headline from the current events.

270. Village

Draw a whimsical village of cute little houses.

Artists like Van Gogh are famous for painting a chair, so get your start by drawing one!

Horses are incredible creatures admired for the beauty and strength. Draw wild horses or someone riding a horse.

273. Drum Set

Not everybody has room for a drum set in their house or the talent to play one, but you can always draw one!

274. Exercise Poses

Draw a figure in different exercise poses, such as yoga or aerobics.

275. Something That Smells Nice

What’s your favorite smell? Draw something that you think smells nice.

276. Illustrate Onomatopoeia Words

Onomatopoeia words are words that are spelled exactly like they sound – and they can be fun to illustrate. Some example words are splash, buzz, pop, fizz, and swish.

277. Detective

Take inspiration from Sherlock Holmes and draw a detective on the case to solve the next mystery.

278. Mythological Creatures

Centaur, griffins, and manticores are all examples of different types of mythological creatures you could draw in your journal.

Draw a game board, game pieces or make up a design that could be used on your very own deck of illustrated cards.

280. Picnic

Set the scene for the perfect picnic lunch – hopefully there won’t be any ants to ruin the fun!

With over 200 owl species to choose from, you could draw a barn owl, a snowy owl, or great horned owl. The above picture my daughter drew when she was six.

282. Your Favorite Decade

Draw a scene from your favorite decade, whether it’s the roaring 1920’s or the fun and colorful 1980’s.

283. Flash Light

No need to stay in the dark – you can draw your own light with a flash light!

284. Bathroom Cabinet

Draw your toothbrush, a bar of soap, or anything else you may regularly keep in your bathroom cabinets.

Idioms are expressions and phrases that generally don’t make any literal sense in the real world…one example being it’s raining cats and dogs. Illustrate a silly idiom or other expression that we don’t take literally. You can find more idioms at the Free Dictionary Idiom Search .

286. Rock Star

Everybody thinks about becoming a rock star at some point, take inspiration from one of your favorite artists or bands or draw yourself rocking out to your favorite kind of music.

287. Party Animals

Draw animals going to a party. Don’t forget their party hats!

What’s hiding up in the attic of that old house? Draw it!

289. Happy Couple

Draw a couple that is happy and in love together.

290. Neighborhood

Sketch a street scene from your local neighborhood.

291. Bar or Restaurant

Where’s the last place you’ve eaten or gone out to? Draw a picture of the exterior or interior of the building.

292. Time Machine

Time machines don’t exist yet, but here’s your chance to design one that will help you travel back and forth in time.

293. Runner

They say life is a marathon and not a sprint…unless a lion is chasing you. Draw someone who is running from something, or maybe they are competing in a 5k or marathon.

294. Treehouse

Wouldn’t it be great to live in a treehouse for a day? Design and draw a Pete Nelson worthy treehouse for you to escape to.

295. Museum

Museums are full of interesting artifacts from history. Visit a museum near you or do a virtual tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History online here .

Boxes can be empty or they can be full of surprises. You can draw just one box or a whole stack of them!

Draw a humanoid-like robot, or draw a robot straight out of a science fiction movie. Cartoon robots are also always fun!

Drawing glass can be a fun way to explore drawing reflections and shadows.

299. Mechanic’s Garage

Draw a mechanic’s garage with cars needing repaired.

300. Helicopter

Did you know the fastest speed of a helicopter ever recorded is 248 mph? That’s crazy!

301. Brick Wall

Brick patterns are a great idea for something to draw.

302. Lighthouse

Lighthouses help keep sailors and ships safe while out at sea. They are also beautiful tourist attractions all around the world.

303. Gifts and Presents

Did you receive any gifts or presents recently? Draw them! You could also draw wrapped presents.

304. Christmas Tree

Deck the halls and put up a Christmas tree, in your art journal or sketchbook at least! Not Christmas time or don’t celebrate Christmas? You could always decorate your tree to be more to your liking.

Towers have been used historically for many different reasons, and they stand tall along the skyline. Draw one!

There are so many famous hotels you could choose to draw, or draw the outside of the last hotel you stayed at.

307. Ant Farm

Ants build the most fascinating tunnels in ant farms. Illustrate an ant farm to show their secret lives in their homes.

308. Battle

You could draw a historic battle or you could draw a fantasy battle between an ogre and a dragon.

309. Waterfall

There are so many waterfalls in the world, experts can’t even agree how many there are! They are beautiful cascading natural elements perfect for sketching.

310. Remote Control

Wouldn’t it be nice to have a remote control that does everything? Take inspiration from the remote control you have for your TV or design your own with custom buttons you could use in your life.

311. Bakery

Cakes, cookies, bread…mmmm…all of my favorite foods can be found at a bakery, so draw one!

312. Suitcase

Packing to go somewhere? You could draw a suitcase ready to travel the world, or draw yours.

We live on this great big earth, so draw it.

314. Mandala

A mandala is a geometric figure that represents the universe. They are often used for meditative purposes and can be so relaxing to draw.

315. Cassette Tape

Am I showing my age here? Even if everything is digital today, cassette tapes are still cool to draw in my book.

316. Antique Car

Cars from the 1900’s look a lot different than the ones we drive today! Draw an antique or classic car that was manufactured before 1970.

317. Castle

You drew the queen and king in prompt number 177, now where are they going to live? Draw a castle fit for royalty, or take inspiration from one of the famous 500+ castles that already exist in the world.

318. Lightning

Lightning can be mesmerizing and the earth is struck by lightning an estimated 1,400,000,000 times a year – now that’s electrifying!

319. Snakes

Some people are scared of snakes, but the best way to overcome that fear is to draw one on paper. Besides, it’s your imagination – you can make the snake a friendly, non-biting one!

I heard you can really draw a crowd…haha…I know, that’s a terribly punny joke but I couldn’t resist.

Swords are often seen in coats of armor and in historical fiction stories like the sword in the stone…try drawing one!

322. Compass

Which way north? Draw a compass rose.

Pigs are very intelligent creatures…and they are cute!

Be careful if you drew three pigs in the last prompt, this could get hairy and become the story of three little pigs quick, which doesn’t end too well for the wolf.

325. Anchor

Anchors are symbols of strength and safety and often used in logos and tattoo designs.

Who doesn’t love a good donut? Draw your favorite flavor donut.

327. Hummingbird

Hummingbirds are very fast to see in real life, but they are beautiful birds to draw.

328. Statues and Sculptures

Draw your own life-like statue or sculpture, or try to draw a realistic rendition of a famous statue such as The Statue of Liberty or the sculpture of Discobolus .

329. Zipper

Zippers are something we use all the time, and they are fun to draw! You can also use the basic shape of a zipper for all sorts of pattern drawing ideas!

330. Television Set

You can draw a retro TV set or draw a more modern day version of a smart TV.

That alien that you drew in prompt #25…what kind of spacecraft were they flying? Draw an unidentified flying object.

332. Scarecrow

Scarecrows are not really all that useful for scaring away crows, but they have become an iconic decoration around the fall and autumn season.

One of the popular games for kids to play in the woods is to go snipe hunting…of course you never find one because snipes don’t exist. No one knows what a snipe really is, but this is your chance to imagine what one would look like if it were real.

334. Chameleon

Chameleons are best known for being able to change their colors to blend into their environment. This is a great opportunity to practice shading or draw with multiple colors.

335. Jellyfish

The nice thing about drawing a jellyfish on paper is they can’t sting you! While you’d never want to get too close to one in real life, they are beautifully amazing creatures of the sea.

336. Unicorn

A unicorn is a mythical creature that looks much like a horse with a single horn on its forehead. They are often depicted in art and folklore, making it the perfect drawing prompt.

Tulips mean spring is coming, and they are fun beautiful flowers to draw in any weather or season. Because they are bulbs, you can even force them to grow in the winter like I did with my flowers. See my post on the seasons of being an artist .

338. Pinwheel

Pinwheels are toys that twirl around when someone blows on them. They are symbolically seen as a way of “turing one’s luck around” and often signify playfulness and happiness.

339. Palm Tree

Did you know palm trees are actually evergreen trees? They are characterized by broad fan-like leaves and usually found in tropical regions around the world.

340. Rainforests

Rainforests are home to thousands of exotic plant species and animals and are typically found around the earth’s equator.

341. Deserted Island

What would you do if you were stuck on a deserted island? What would it look like? I hope you brought a notebook and pencil!

342. Snowflakes

No two snowflakes are alike, and you can have so much fun drawing different patterns and designs of snowflakes.

343. Ball or Sphere

Balls and spheres are a great opportunity to play around with drawing different shadow angles and light sources.

344. Goldfish

Goldfish are easy to draw and are a favorite pet for many people.

345. DNA Helix

It’s crazy to think we have DNA and I even recently just did a DNA test on Ancestry.com – it’s so fascinating to me to trace back all of my ancestors. Drawing the helix is a great way to practice different shading techniques as well.

One of my favorite songs is You Are the Moon by the Hush Sound , and I can’t think but illustrating a beautiful moonlit landscape everytime I hear it.

347. Trapeze Artist

Trapeze artists are highly skilled entertainers who perform all sorts of aerial tricks on ropes. Often seen at circuses, many modern artists can be seen in cities and other places.

348. Atoms and Molecules

You don’t have to be a chemistry major to recognize that atoms and molecule diagrams can be fascinating subjects for drawing ideas!

349. Carousel

I’ve always loved merry go round carousel rides and still ride them even now whenever I get a chance. You can choose to draw the whole carousel or just draw a carousel horse.

350. Cabin or Cottage in the Woods

Draw your own artists retreat place in the form of a cabin or cottage in the woods.

351. Buttons

Buttons make for great doodles, or you can always draw a magic button that you can push for when things go awry.

352. Pot of Gold

What’s at the end of your rainbow from prompt #153? Shamrock optional.

353. Doctor’s Office

Have you ever noticed all the different things they have at the doctor’s office when you go in for a check-up?

354. Panda Bear

Panda bears are just cute and that is why you should draw one.

355. Building Blocks

Building blocks are a great way to play with different angles, lines, and shadows.

356. Ferris Wheel

Ferris wheels are popular carnival rides and a great thing to draw.

357. Turkey

You can draw a turkey – it’s as simple as tracing your hand. Of course, you could always opt to draw a turkey that’s a bit more realistic.

358. Lollipops and Candy

Craving something sweet? Draw a lollipop or another favorite type of Candy.

You could draw a city bus, a school bus, or even a double-decker bus.

360. Flamingo

Flamingos are graceful birds most well known for their ability to balance on just one leg.

361. Ukulele

Ukulele’s only have 4 strings and are smaller and higher pitched than a guitar. Both of my daughters play the Ukulele!

362. Strawberry

Strawberries are amazingly detailed when you look at one up close, making them a great option for a close-up sketch.

363. Sandcastle

Did you know people build sandcastles at a competitive level? It’s amazing what architects, engineers, and creative designers and make out of sand at sand castle competitions!

364. Record Player

We may not play records that often anymore, but they are still a totally fun vintage thing to draw.

365. Magic Wand

Wouldn’t it be nice to have a magic wand? Well, you can always draw one!

I hope you enjoyed this list of 365 Drawing Ideas and of course if you create any of these things to draw I would love to see it in our Artjournalist Facebook community group !

Do you have any ideas for things to draw that I might have missed? I’d love to hear your ideas and how you will use these drawing prompts – tell me in the comments below!

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19 Comments

How about flowers

she said sunflowers which are technically flowers

great list of inspiration

This was a wonderful list

i like these thanks for curing my dreadful boredom 😃😄😊

I’ve read a lot of lists for drawing prompts, this one is by far the best! Thank you so much! I’m sure it took some time to come up with all of these!!

I’m glad you’re enjoying them!

Can you please share some painting ideas?

Sounds like a great idea Amy, I will get on it 🙂

great list i cant wait to fill lots of sketchbooks up with ideas oh also how about fidget toys they are great to draw

Hmm cant think of any! It sure helped me. I run art contests every week and like gettin opinions from people on themes, seeing this I may never have trouble picking a theme again! lol😂

I was stuck trying to think of ideas of what to draw during a pandemic. Thanks for all the great ideas. I better get started, I have hundreds of drawings to do. Joyce

Glad it inspired you Joyce!

I actually had a drawing competition in my school and the topic was “dreaming with eyes open” and this really helped thanks!

thanks for this great list of inspiration. defiantly cured my boredom. I really liked the coffee idea. i made a really good painting for my kitchen with it. it says: “Key To My Morning. it is is painting of a blue coffee cup, with i red back round. my parents drink coffe every morning so i made it for them.

you should add hallway

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Fine Art Tutorials

40+ Sketchbook Ideas to Spark Your Creativity

Are you looking for sketchbook ideas to help jump start your creativity? Get inspired to draw and paint with these 40+ fun sketchbook ideas. Find tutorials for each idea so you can create the perfect sketchbook spread, whether you are a beginner or professional artist. 

From nature sketches to figure drawings, there is something for everyone in this list. Get started on your next masterpiece today!

Disclaimer: Fine Art Tutorials is a reader supported site. When you make purchases through links on this site, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Sketchbook ideas for complete beginners

For complete beginners, a sketchbook is a place to doodle, improve and express yourself without the pressure of creating a polished looking painting or drawing.

If you don’t know how to get started with a sketchbook, try starting with some simple objects. Find some fruit, or a plant and try drawing what you see in front of you, focussing on the broad shapes and forms.

A good tip is to use some pages for free form expression, some pages for drawing exercises to help you improve and some pages to plan compositions and create studies for larger works you plan to complete.

Drawing sketchbook ideas

Pencil drawing is the easiest medium to get started with. All you need is a pencil, eraser, sharpener and a sketchbook and you’re ready to go!

There’s no end to the possibilities of sketchbook ideas when using pencil as a drawing medium. Here are just a few ideas to get you going:

Draw a portrait with charcoal

Portrait drawing goes hand in hand with charcoal. This is because it’s a blendable medium that can appear soft and subtle, or you can apply pressure to achieve dark shadow values. Charcoal can get quite dusty and potentially transfer onto other pages, so make sure to get some fixative to preserve your drawings . If you’re interested in improving your skills at charcoal drawing , check out our guide!

Draw a charcoal landscape

Drawing a charcoal landscape is a great sketchbook idea, whether you find your references on the field or from photos in the studio. This artist uses charcoal pencils and a tortillion to blend. The great thing about charcoal is the deep values that artists can achieve, without the pencil marks being distorted by a sheen, unlike graphite pencils.

Use brush charcoal

One way of creating incredibly smooth looking blends with charcoal is to get some charcoal powder and brush it on the paper. This technique is especially useful for portrait drawing. To emphasise the shadows, get a charcoal pencil and draw them in. For the lightest highlights, get a small eraser, like the Tombow Mono Zero or a kneadable gum eraser to reveal the brightest areas. 

Draw a tree

If you want to improve your landscape sketching skills, you could practice drawing individual elements like trees or plants individually first. In this video learn how to draw three different trees, including fir trees with graphite pencil.

Draw a rose

A beautiful and easy sketchbook idea, is to fill the page with a rose drawing. Roses are delicate and complex, but also have a lot of symmetry which makes them ideal for beginners. Follow this tutorial to create your own rose sketch.

Start by drawing a simple oval shape in the center of your page. Then draw the petals curling outwards, gradually getting bigger further away from the centre. Shade the inner corners of the petals, where petals above are blocking the light and casting a shadow to give the drawing depth and realism.

Draw a cityscape

Cityscapes are an incredibly fun sketchbook idea, however they are challenging. Use your perspective drawing skills to achieve the correct proportions in the buildings. Choose any city you like, whether that’s a street scene in New York, or your favourite building in London. To draw buildings, you may need some additional tools to help with geometry, like a ruler. 

In this tutorial Alphonso Dunn shows artists how to draw a panoramic city skyline, using ink pen and the hatching technique to create the impression of light and shade. Use an ink pen, like a pigment liner or a fountain pen to create the same effect.

Architectural sketchbook ideas

Teoh Yi Chie creates a wonderful sketch of the Basilica of Superga with a fountain pen and washes of watercolour. He shows artists how to observe the reference and accurately draw angles of the building, to achieve a realistic perspective.

Create a realistic sketchbook drawing with coloured pencils

Oil and wax pencils such as Polychromos and Prismacolors are excellent for creating detailed drawings. They are highly pigmented, layer wonderfully and artists can create clean colour mixes. This is why this particular drawing medium lends itself to realism. If you’re new to realistic drawing, start by drawing a relatively easy subject, such as a leaf. 

One of the most challenging sketchbook ideas is to create a realistic piece. Realistic drawings take time and work, but the results are worth it. If you want to create an ultra polished looking sketchbook that you will keep on a bookshelf for years to come, you can justify spending more time on each of the drawings. Of course, if you really like a drawing you make, you can always remove it from the sketchbook, or scan and print it out to hang on the wall.

Create a pineapple drawing

Create a drawing of a pineapple ! Pineapples have an interesting form, with long leaves and small diamond shaped fruitlets, so they make excellent subjects for practising your drawing skills. For this sketchbook idea, I used a Strathmore Toned Tan book , which has a velvety smooth soft cover and thick pages. The toned paper provides a wonderful base to draw on, it speeds up the drawing process as the mid tone values are already established on the paper. I used a burnt umber Polychromos pencil for the shadows and a white Polychromos pencil for the highlights.

Sketching from photographs

This tutorial from Draw Awesome and Art Tutor aims to help artists simplify a reference by playing down the amount of detail. This is an approach that can save heaps of time whilst drawing. 

When it comes to sketching from photographs, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. The first is that you should always use a reference photograph that is high quality and has good lighting. This will help you avoid any frustration later on when trying to recreate the image.

Another important tip is to start with the big shapes and work your way down to the smaller details. This will help you create a more accurate sketch and avoid getting bogged down in the small stuff.

And finally, don’t be afraid to experiment! Try different mediums, paper types and techniques until you find something that you love.

Nature sketching

If you love hiking and being outdoors, why not keep a nature journal. Track the plants and animals you see year round, with quick sketches. This is a great way to feel in touch with your surroundings. You can label the flora and fauna you see too! One art supply that is great for travelling with is watercolour markers . The markers pack away small in a case, but you can wet the marks with a brush to create wonderful watercolour effects when you’re on the go, without cleanup or mess.

Create a wildlife drawing with coloured pencils

Because coloured pencils layer so beautifully, they are the perfect medium for creating wildlife drawings. Draw an photo of an animal you find online, draw your pet, a bird, or you could even take a trip to the zoo and draw an animal there. 

Drawing fur is tricky, so watch how Amie Howard Art layers red, orange and brown tones with short pencil marks to create the impression of squirrel fur. 

Fill your sketchbook with gouache paintings

Gouache is a wonderful medium for sketchbook work. It behaves in the same way as watercolour paint, but is is more pigmented and opaque. This means that you can layer paint a bit like acrylic, leaving some of the highlights until last. The benefit of using it for sketchbook work is that it is fast drying and easy to clean. Here are some fun sketchbook ideas to try with gouache paints:

Create a gouache mountain painting

I created this gouache landscape painting from a reference picture I had taken in New Zealand around Queenstown. The Strathmore Visual Journal made for a great cold pressed sketchbook, as the paper is thick and doesn’t buckle under washes. I also used the Introductory set of Winsor & Newton gouache colours .

gouache landscape painting

I started by blocking in the midtones, then working in the shadows and highlights, whilst also building texture of the plants and grasses with the dry brush technique.

Paint a series of tonal portraits

Paint a series of quick portraits and try to use a limited palette for each. Paint in whatever style you like. Use the gouache paints with water to create transparent looking washes, for soft looking gradations in skin tone. Use titanium white for opaque highlights to layer on at the end. 

Paint flowers in your garden

Get outside to your garden, to a park, or you could even buy a bunch of flowers to paint a still life. 

Watch how James Gurney blocks in the broad shapes and tones with gouache, then refines details. Colours that work well for painting bright flower tones include cadmium yellow, cadmium red and magenta or rose red. Mix your green shades from blues and yellows, or buy viridian and sap green tubes. 

Paint a mountain lake reflection

Follow this tutorial to create a mountain lake reflection painting. I start with washes of colour, then build up details, shadows and opaque highlights. To create the texture in the trees and the clouds, I use the dry brush technique. This is a pretty simple technique, where the artist loads their brush with colour, then removes excess moisture on a paper towel. The dry brush will pick up the texture of the paper, creating organic and broken looking brush strokes. For optimum results, if you want to try using this technique, get cold pressed or rough textured sketchbook. 

Paint nature scenes

Paint along with YouTuber Dadozilla and paint some small, cosy nature scenes. If you’re a beginner gouache painter, starting by working on a smaller scale can be really beneficial. This is because you’ll complete the paintings faster and therefore get more practice at painting a variety of scenes. For more gouache painting ideas , check out our guide.

Create a series of illustrations in your sketchbook

Make a series of small illustrations, whether that’s character designs, typographic sketches or other types of graphics. Get creative, drawing a mixture of wildlife, portraits, or sketches entirely from imagination. You could also sketch some fun, bright objects, like a pair of red roller skates or packaging of your favourite sweets. Sometimes with illustrations, the more obscure the sketchbook idea the better. It can help to think of themes, for example, draw a series of haunted houses, or a series of characterful cats.

Try a sketchbook drawing challenge

A great sketchbook idea, if you’ve got a bit of creative block, is to join a drawing or art challenge. You can find drawing challenges online, for example on Instagram by following hashtags. Challenges like these will give you daily prompts, however, if you want to start a daily sketching practice, you can make your own prompts list too!

100 heads in 10 days

Draw 10 heads per day for 10 days. Use whatever medium you like, for example, charcoal, graphite, oil pencils or even marker. You can be as detailed with these head drawings as you like and draw them in whatever style you like. Whether that’s a cartoony style, or more realistic. 

Inktober is one of the most popular drawing challenges, that artists take part in every year in the month of October. It’s super easy to take part, head over to the Inktober website and look at the drawing prompts for each day of the month. Then draw your own interpretation of the prompt. The challenge was set up to encourage artists to improve their skills and start regular drawing habits. However, if daily drawing is too much for you, you could try completing a drawing every other day, or even one per week. Of course, you can use any medium you like, it doesn’t have to be ink pen. Some oil painters take part in Oil-tober, which is a similar daily art making challenge, but with oil paints. Track your progress through the month in your sketchbook and share your results on social media if you feel like it!

Plein air sketchbook ideas

Painting and drawing en plein air is a great way to get inspired and motivated to create. It can be challenging at first, but the results are so worth it.

Here are some tips for painting en plein air:

  •  Choose a subject that is simple and not too busy. A landscape or cityscape with few buildings or people is a good choice.
  •  Find a spot where you can set up your easel and have a good view of your subject.
  •  Start by sketching out the scene with light pencil strokes.
  •  Once you have the basic composition down, start painting in the sky first.
  •  Work on the middle ground next and then the foreground.
  •  Add in any final details and highlights last.

By following these tips, you will be well on your way to creating beautiful en plein air sketchbook paintings. So grab your drawing supplies and head outdoors!

Watercolour sketchbook ideas

Watercolour is a beautiful medium to use in your sketchbook. It can be challenging, but the results are so worth it. Here are some watercolour sketchbook ideas to get you started:

Paint a seascape

Seascapes are mesmerizing and peaceful, making them perfect for relaxing and de-stressing. Paint this moody deep blue seascape, using multiples washes and the layering technique. If you want a clean line around your paper, use some masking tape.

Ink and watercolour painting

This is a fun and easy painting technique that produces stunning results. To create an ink and watercolour painting, start by painting your background with watercolour. Once the background is dry, add in some ink details. You can use a pen, like a fountain pen or a pigment liner. This technique is great for drawing buildings, cityscapes and other features that suit being outlined.

Watercolour pencil drawing

This is a great way to add some colour to your sketches. To create a watercolour pencil drawing , start by sketching out the scene with light pencil strokes. Once you have the basic composition down, you can start colouring in the main areas where you want to create washes. Activate the pencil with water. Then for the final details, you can choose to draw over the painting with dry watercolour pencil.

Acrylic painting sketchbook ideas

Acrylic paints are a versatile and fun medium to use in your sketchbook. They can be used for a variety of effects, from bold and bright to soft and subtle. Here are some acrylic painting sketchbook ideas to get you started:

Paint an abstract acrylic piece

Abstract paintings are a great way to experiment with colour and texture . Acrylics dry fast and are water resistant when dry, so layers will not reactivate as they do with watercolour and gouache.

abstract acrylic sketchbook ideas

To paint an abstract acrylic piece, you could first choose a colour scheme . Abstract pieces can look quite effective with limited colour palettes. Experiment with dripping, flicking and scraping the paint. Check out our acrylic painting techniques guide for some alternative ideas.

Paint a relaxing cloudscape

Paint a relaxing cloudscape with acrylics. Acrylic paint is fast drying, so it can be tricky to blend unless you use a medium to slow the drying time. Use this open working medium to increase the working time of the paint. Use a clean soft synthetic brush to blend cloud textures. 

Paint the forest with acrylics

Forests are complex subjects with lots of leaves, trees and foliage details. Approach a complex painting like this by blocking in the broad shapes and colours. Then gradually work in the details and highlights. You don’t need an extra small brush for the leaves, work with a medium square brush to avoid focussing on details too heavily. 

Pen and ink sketchbook ideas

When drawing with marker pen and ink, make sure to get a thick sketchbook that pen won’t bleed through. Smooth paper works best with pens as it allows artists to create fine details and delicate line work.

Create a portrait drawing with copic marker

Create a portrait with copic marker , or Winsor & Newton’s Pro markers . Colours blend beautifully into one another and are best layered from light to dark, similar to watercolour. If you want to create small highlight details you could use a white gel pen. 

Urban sketching with pen and ink

Watch this tutorial to learn how to create accurate urban sketches. Discover fundamental skills like how to compose the drawing, to frame buildings to create areas of interest.

Draw from imagination in your sketchbook

One of the most rewarding things you can do in your sketchbook is to draw from your imagination. This could be any kind of fantasy scene, from a series of characters in a book that you’ve read or some characters that you’ve made up.

If you get stuck, try looking at some reference images to help you get started. Once you have the basic idea down, let your imagination run wild and see where it takes you!

Keep a travel sketchbook

travel sketchbook ideas

If you get the opportunity to travel, take a sketchbook with you! Drawing in a sketchbook in a new location is a great way to make you feel grounded and in touch with new surroundings. It can also attune your artists’ eye and make you look out for interesting scenes.

Pack a sketchbook and some gouache paints while you’re out touring a new city, find somewhere comfortable to sit with your sketchbook and draw or paint scenes you find inspiring. If you want some tips and ideas about how to keep a travel sketchbook , check out our guide.

Create a double page spread

When creating a double page spread, the format of your sketchbook and the binding will affect how your sketchbook page looks. For example, landscape format sketchbooks are great for panoramic scenes. In a spiral bound sketchbook, the wire separates each page. Make sure to get a thread bound book so that the pages sit perfectly next to each other.

Also, think about the composition of the piece. When creating a double page spread, you will want to make sure that the composition of each individual page works well with the other. This means that you should avoid making one page significantly busier than the other, for instance.

Once you have considered all of these factors, you are ready to start creating your double page spread! There are endless sketchbook ideas for double page spreads, including vast cityscapes, imaginary scenes and more!

Warm-ups, drawing and painting exercises

One of the benefits of having a sketchbook is that you can use it to do warm-ups, painting and drawing exercises .

Warm-ups are a great way to get your creative juices flowing and help you to avoid artist’s block.

These exercises are designed to help you improve your skills and techniques, and can be anything from life drawing to trying out different mediums.

There are many different types of warm-up exercises you can do, but some simple ones include:

Speed drawing

Drawing a series of quick sketches of random objects, people or scenes is a great way to get your hand moving and help you to loosen up.

This exercise is also a good way to warm up before starting a more detailed drawing or painting.

To do a speed drawing, set a timer for one minute and then draw whatever comes into your mind.

You can also try two-minute or five-minute drawings if you want to challenge yourself to create more detail in a short space of time.

Once you have completed a series of quick sketches, take some time to review them and see if there are any patterns or themes that emerge.

You can also use these sketches as inspiration for future drawings or paintings.

Gesture drawing

sketchbook tattoo ideas

Doing some gesture drawings is a good way to improve your figure drawing skills.

To do a gesture drawing, start by finding a subject. This can be anything from a photo in a magazine to a live person or animal.

Don’t worry about getting every detail right, just focus on capturing the overall gesture and motion of the subject.

Create colour swatches

sketchbook tattoo ideas

A colour swatch is a chart that contains the pigments in your palette painted in a series of small boxes. Label the boxes with the pigment number and colour name for the pure swatches. Optionally, you can create tints and shades of the colours by adding white or black.

Colour mixing chart

Create more colour swatches by mixing pigments together. Colour swatches are a great way of practising colour mixing and getting familiar with the pigments you are using. To create the colour mix swatches, mix up your colours in differing quantities, then label the proportion of colours mixed. You can use these swatches as reference points for when you come to make larger pieces.

Contour drawing

contour drawing exercise

Contour drawing is a great way to improve your observation skills and learn how to capture the essence of an object or subject.

To do a contour drawing, start by finding an object with interesting shapes. It can be anything from a vase to a leaf. Place the object in front of you and look at it closely.

Then, start drawing the outline of the object, starting at the top and working your way around. As you draw, pay attention to the small details and try to capture the essence of the object.

Once you have finished drawing the outline, fill in any details that you see.

Create a composition sketch

A thumbnail sketch is a small drawing that contains the basic elements of your composition. They are generally no bigger than an inch square.

To create a thumbnail sketch, start by brainstorming some ideas for your composition. Once you have come up with a few ideas, begin doing some quick sketches of each one. Think about how you will create a focal point and lead the viewer’s eye in with the positioning of the subject.

Don’t worry about getting the details perfect, just focus on capturing the overall idea of the composition.

Once you have a few thumbnail sketches, take some time to review them and see which one you think has the most potential. You can then use this sketch as a starting point for your larger piece.

Sketchbook cover ideas

Your sketchbook is a reflection of you and your creativity, so make sure to choose a cover that represents that! You can go for a simple and classic look with a black or white cover, or get more creative with patterns, colours and textures.

If your cover has a cotton texture , you could even acrylic paint over it! Prime the surface first with sealant and gesso, then paint your custom design. Wait for it to dry and optionally varnish it.

Mixed media sketchbooks

Creating a mixed media sketchbook is a great way to explore your creativity and experiment with different mediums.

To create a mixed media sketchbook, start by finding a sketchbook that is made from high quality paper. This will ensure that your sketches don’t bleed through to the next page. Once you have found a suitable sketchbook, gather together a selection of mediums that you would like to use. These could be anything from watercolour paints to pastels.

Experiment with different techniques and mediums, and see what you can create! There are lots of mediums that are compatible with one another. For example, you can use oil pastels or soft pastels over watercolour paint. Pastels also go well with matte acrylic, gouache and acrylic gouache.

Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, as this is part of the learning process. The most important thing is to have fun and be creative!

How to use a sketchbook

A sketchbook is completely personal and unique to each artist. Certain artists will want to put more thought and time into each of their drawings and perhaps only use one medium throughout. Whereas other artists will use their sketchbooks for warm up exercises and to doodle to their heart’s content.

The best way to use a sketchbook if you have art block, is to just get started and not worry about messing up! A sketchbook is a place to learn and improve and you don’t have to show anyone else the contents. Your art will improve quickly, if you create a deliberate, focussed and regular drawing practice, with the help of your sketchbook. If you commit to a regular drawing practice, you’ll finish many sketchbooks over the years. Keep hold of your sketchbooks to track your drawing progress. Each sketchbook page doesn’t have to look like a masterpiece when you first start out, but as your skills improve, more pages will showcase your skills and techniques.

Pick the right sketchbook for your art

It’s important to pick the right sketchbook for your needs. If you want to use watercolours , choose a paper that is heavy enough to withstand the wet media without warping or buckling. For pen and ink drawings, you might want a smooth paper so that you can draw details without them being obscured by the paper’s texture. Find the best sketchbooks for artists in our guide.

I hope you found these sketchbook ideas helpful and that they inspire you to create your own art. Happy creating!

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Wow! So many ideas that I haven’t tried before. I will have to save this and return to it.

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Best tattoo design applications

Check out the software you need to know.

Whether you accept it or not, tattoo design applications have become an excellent advantage for tattoo artists. The software that we have available today makes the creation process more accessible and more agile.

If you want to improve your work and increase your impact on networks, we have selected some applications that we consider the most outstanding for your work as an artist.

There are more and more programs, but these are our favorites, and here we tell you why.

1. Procreate

Procreate is one of the favourite apps of many artists with Apple-brand devices, and it is available for iOS and iPadOS systems on the App Store.

It is a simple platform to use, with many brushes and tools . Furthermore, it is possible to work with layers, colours, letters, fonts and accessories that offer you total freedom of action. The interface is very comfortable and intuitive, and at a performance level, it is one of the best we have tested.

Procreate is among the most used by users with phones and tablets at a very affordable price . All types of tattoos can be designed in this application, regardless of the final size, colour, texture or type of layout.

With Procreate , you can experience endless possibilities for creating art. In this case, the tattoo design will be effortless and practical with the use of this application.

Rating: 4.5 of 5 Price: 9.99 USD Website: https://procreate.art

2. Adobe Photoshop

Photoshop is worldwide recognized for the possibilities of creating any type of design. But it can also be used as an excellent option for retouching photographs and as an application to design tattoos .

It is available for Windows and macOS devices ; some specifications should be considered before purchasing it. It is one of the complete applications, so it requires advanced design knowledge . Well, it is recommended.

However, due to its popularity, it is possible to find a wide variety of online courses and workshops on how to use this program. The rest is simply designing without limitations , with high quality and with endless plugins.

Using this application requires specific knowledge, but apart from this, it is pretty intuitive. However, its high price is not the best option for everyone, but it is ideal for professional artists and design students. It has a free trial version.

Rating: 4.8 of 5 Price: 20.99 USD per month Website: https://www.adobe.com

3. Magic Poser

Magic Poser is an excellent application whose main focus is 3D design . It stands out for its great recognition among Android and Apple devices users , and the possibility of being used in both systems is one of the main points in favour of this app.

It is a completely free app and relatively simple to use , dedicated to artists with or without experience. Its practicality and ease of use allow new users to practise their design skills with this application.

It can be a perfect option for artists looking to visualize the design of their tattoos in a much more realistic plane. Making the tattoo can be seen in 3D. This can allow visualization of the design from different perspectives and angles, which undoubtedly helps to check the final result of the piece.

In short, it is an excellent app to make designs and test them on bodies thanks to 3D.

Rating: 4.5 of 5 Precio: Free Website: https://magicposer.com

4. SketchBook

This is software for editing raster images (pixel images), focused on illustration design. Previously, it belonged to the Autodesk company until it was consolidated as an independent company, Sketchbook Inc.

Previously, you could try it free for 30 days, and after that, you had to pay a monthly subscription. But since 2018, the app has become highly popular by launching free versions for public use.

In addition, you can use it on tablets, iPads, mobile phones and computers without any problem, which makes it stand out from others.

But unlike other editors, in this one, you can only trace and draw, but you cannot edit images. Therefore, if you need to touch up the contrast or brightness of a photograph before designing the template, you won't be able to do it with this program.

However, you can use it to practice drawing and train your creativity by making your designs. If you want to know how to find your own style in tattoos, enter here, and we will tell you everything you need to know How to create your tattoo style?

Rating: 4.6 out of 5

Price: Free

Website: https://www.sketchbook.com/

5. Clip Studio Paint

You may know this program as Manga Studio, but it has now changed brands. It is a program for the design of comics, which offers many advantages in the world of drawing.

Among so many tools, it has a stabilization system that automatically perfects the lines and strokes, achieving a better finish.

In addition, you have the possibility of carrying out a basic 3D modelling that allows you to design a tattoo that adapts to the natural curvatures of the body.

Price: one-time payment of USD26.30, or payment for a year of license for USD12.

Website: https://www.clipstudio.net/es/

6. MediBang

sketchbook tattoo ideas

For lovers of illustration and anime, this is one of the most used programs. Initially, it is configured for the design of comics and comics, but due to its great possibilities, it managed to become the choice of many tattoo artists.

Its interface is quite simple and allows you to import photos and add them in layers so that you can work on top of them independently and without problems.

The advantage is that this program is also free to use, but the disadvantages are that you need to create an account and also have to deal with advertisements.

Website: https://medibangpaint.com/es/

Design apps are beneficial for tattooing

Some of the apps mentioned in this list require design knowledge, while others focus on the convenience and simplicity of the software. But overall, they all seek to be highly effective in the development of paintings, drawings and sketches; that's why they are becoming increasingly useful and beneficial for those who tattoo.

So, don't hesitate to explore each of the possibilities that these apps have to offer and choose the one that best suits your work style.

A great way to learn how to use them is through the experience of tattoo artists who have been using them for a while, like Coreh López, who in his MasterCourse: Realistic Tattooing devotes entire episodes to explaining how to get the most out of these tools.

IMAGES

  1. Sketchbook Tattoos that Vibrate on the Body by Luca Testadiferro

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  2. Sketchbook Tattoo Sketch Drawing Ideas

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  3. Tattoo Artist: Sketchbook Tattoo By Illustrator Miriam Frank

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  4. Pin by Aramitahernandezacosta on Tattoos in 2020

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  5. 40+ Fascinating Sketch Style Tattoo Designs

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  6. Sketchbook 11

    sketchbook tattoo ideas

VIDEO

  1. Design your own tattoo art with SketchAI

  2. Art ideas for you sketchbook part.1

  3. FUN SKETCHBOOK IDEAS #art #sketchbook #trending #youngartist #drawing

  4. 💡 SKETCHBOOK IDEAS! 💡

COMMENTS

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    Step 1: Draw 2 circles on a sheet of tracing paper. Step 2: Draw general shapes to find the basic form of the petals. Step 3: Add more specific details (petal shape, the inside of the rose) and start to define your linework. Step 4: Add any extra flourishes (in this image, the stem, leaves, and curlicues are added).

  19. Choosing the best Sketchbook

    1. Paper Types and Quality The quality of the paper in your sketchbook is critical for producing the best artwork. Consider the type of medium you plan to use, such as dry or wet media or coloured pencils, and choose paper that is appropriate.

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    Here are 365 Drawing Ideas to Inspire: 1. View from the park. Parks are great sources of inspiration for drawing. Snap a few of your own reference photos of monuments, benches, and scenes that capture your eye or spend some time in the park with your sketchbook drawing the different scenes you notice. 2.

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    Making the tattoo can be seen in 3D. This can allow visualization of the design from different perspectives and angles, which undoubtedly helps to check the final result of the piece. In short, it is an excellent app to make designs and test them on bodies thanks to 3D. Rating: 4.5 of 5 Precio: Free Website: https://magicposer.com